The US Department of Interior on Monday released the names of three firefighters who were killed while working to contain wildfires along the Utah-Colorado border. Thirty-eight-year-old Emily Barker of Michigan, 27-year-old Nick Hutcherson of Arizona, and 27-year-old Sydney Watson of Alabama died on Saturday while battling the Knowles fire in western Colorado. Two other firefighters from the same specialized helicopter-deployed crew were also injured in the blaze, though authorities did not identify them.
Details of the Incident
The crew attempted to use tent-like shelters to protect themselves from the flames but were overcome, according to the Associated Press. The three firefighters were part of a Helitack crew that provides rapid response to wildfires, often being dropped into remote locations that are otherwise inaccessible. The Knowles fire they were fighting has merged with two other fires to form the Snyder Mesa fire, which the Colorado governor's office estimates has burned over 28,000 acres.
State of Emergency Declared
Thousands of firefighters have been deployed across western US states and Alaska to combat a series of wildfires this month, fueled by dry, hot weather and high winds. Utah Governor Spencer Cox declared a state of emergency last week and banned personal fireworks until after the Fourth of July due to dangerous conditions. Colorado Governor Jared Polis announced a similar state of emergency on Saturday.
Official Statements
Governor Polis issued a statement on Sunday mourning the deaths of Barker, Hutcherson, and Watson, saying, "The men and women who serve on the frontlines of these fires risk their lives to keep us safe and to protect the lands and communities we love. To the loved ones of those lost, and to their fellow crew members – some who are still battling the flames – know that the state of Colorado mourns alongside you."
Several other politicians and agencies, including Utah Governor Cox and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, also issued statements. The Department of Interior announced it had mobilized a "serious accident investigation team" to review the circumstances surrounding the incident. Forest Service Deputy Chief Sarah Fisher said in a statement, "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."
