Federal wildland fire officials released on June 29 the identities of three firefighters who died while responding to the Knowles Fire in western Colorado. The incident occurred as the firefighters, assigned to the Rifle Helitack crew, were engaged in initial attack operations on the fire.
The deceased have been identified as Emily Barker, 38, of Clinton Township, Michigan; Nick Hutcherson, 27, of Glendale, Arizona; and Sydney Watson, 27, of Warrior, Alabama. Barker and Watson were assigned to the U.S. Forest Service Rifle Helitack unit, while Hutcherson was with the U.S. Forest Service Kaibab National Forest. Two additional firefighters sustained injuries during the incident and are currently receiving medical care.
Officials reported that the Snyder Fire has merged with the Jones Fire and subsequently overtook both the Knowles and Gore fires. All fire activity is now being managed under the Snyder Fire designation. The blaze is estimated at over 28,000 acres along the Colorado-Utah border and is currently under command by an interagency complex incident management team.
U.S. Wildland Fire Service Chief Brian Fennessy said, “We mourn the loss of three firefighters who answered the call to protect others and made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their fellow citizens. Our thoughts are with their families, loved ones, friends and crewmates as they face an unimaginable loss. These firefighters embodied the courage, professionalism and selflessness that define the wildland fire service. Please join me and my family in keeping our thoughts and prayers with the families of the fallen and our injured firefighters and their families.”
Forest Service Deputy Chief Sarah Fisher said, “This is an incredibly difficult moment for the entire wildland fire community. Our heavy hearts are with the families during this unimaginable time. We recognize the tremendous impact this loss has on them and are deeply grateful for the devotion their loved ones brought to our organizations. We will honor their memory with compassion and support as their selfless service and commitment create an enduring legacy.”
The U.S. Department of Interior’s Wildland Fire Service together with U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service are coordinating response efforts while providing support for those affected by this tragedy. A serious accident investigation team has been mobilized to review circumstances surrounding this incident.