Three federal wildland firefighters died Saturday while responding to the Knowles Fire in western Colorado, officials announced. The incident also resulted in injuries to two additional firefighters.

Incident Details

The fallen firefighters were assigned to the Rifle Helitack crew and were engaged in initial attack operations on the Knowles Fire when the incident occurred. All fire activity is now being managed as the Snyder Fire, which is estimated at more than 28,000 acres along the Colorado-Utah border.

The deceased firefighters have been identified as Emily Barker, 38, of Clinton Township, Mich., who was assigned to the U.S. Forest Service Rifle Helitack. Nick Hutcherson, 27, of Glendale, Ariz., was assigned to the U.S. Forest Service Kaibab National Forest. Sydney Watson, 26, of Warrior, Ala., was assigned to the U.S. Wildland Fire Service Rifle Helitack.

U.S. Wildland Fire Service Chief Brian Fennessy expressed profound sorrow over the loss. “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,” Fennessy said. “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.

Forest Service Deputy Chief Sarah Fisher also offered condolences, highlighting the impact on the community. “This is an incredibly difficult moment for the entire wildland fire community,” Fisher said. “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.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.