2nd firefighter dies fighting blaze near Yosemite National Park

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Photo: Brian Hughes/Photo courtesy of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks 

Authorities say a second firefighter has died fighting a huge blaze near California's Yosemite National Park.

Mike Theune, a spokesman for the so-called Ferguson Fire, says the firefighter, identified as Captain Brian Hughes, was treated for injuries at the scene Sunday but died before he could be hospitalized.

Theune says Hughes was part of a crew removing brush and other fuel near the fire's front lines. He didn't have additional details.

Earlier this month, firefighter Barden Varney was killed when the bulldozer he was operating overturned. At least seven other firefighters have been injured since the blaze broke out July 13.

As of Friday the fire had burned 56,659 acres with 30% containment.

Some evacuations have been lifted but officials say Yosemite Valley, the heart of tourism in the park will remain closed until August 3.