Three Firefighters Killed in Colorado as Wildfire Activity Continues Across the Southwest

Wildland firefighters across the Southwest are mourning the loss of three crew members killed while responding to a rapidly growing wildfire in western Colorado as New Mexico crews continue battling several active fires under increasingly restrictive fire conditions.

Federal officials identified the firefighters as Emily Barker, 38, of Clinton Township, Michigan; Nick Hutcherson, 27, of Glendale, Arizona; and Sydney Watson, 27, of Warrior, Alabama. The three were assigned to the Rifle Helitack crew and were engaged in initial attack operations on the Knowles Fire when the incident occurred Saturday. Two additional firefighters were injured and remain under medical care.

The Knowles Fire has since merged with several other incidents into the Snyder Fire, now estimated at more than 28,000 acres along the Colorado-Utah border. A Serious Accident Investigation Team has been mobilized to determine the circumstances surrounding the fatalities.

“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,” U.S. Wildland Fire Service Chief Brian Fennessy said. “These firefighters embodied the courage, professionalism and selflessness that define the wildland fire service.”

Beehive Fire Tops 3,100 Acres

In northern New Mexico, the Beehive Fire west of Tres Piedras has grown to 3,121 acres and remains 0% contained.

Fire managers reported increased fire activity Monday afternoon as stronger winds pushed flames along the northeastern edge of the fire, producing a large smoke column visible from surrounding communities. Despite the increased activity, officials said firefighters continue constructing direct and indirect containment lines using ground crews, bulldozers and aerial resources.

A Northern New Mexico Type 3 Incident Management Team assumed command Monday morning. Crews are using a direct suppression strategy wherever conditions allow while focusing on protecting nearby private property.

Motorists traveling along U.S. Highways 64 and 285 are urged to use caution as periods of heavy smoke continue to reduce visibility. Hikers on the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail are also encouraged to avoid the section between Hopewell Lake and the Rio Grande National Forest.

Fire Restrictions Increasing

Officials announced that Stage 2 fire restrictions will take effect Tuesday in the area surrounding the Beehive Fire.

Elsewhere in New Mexico, Stage II Fire Restrictions remain in effect across the Santa Fe National Forest, while the New Mexico State Forester’s statewide burn ban continues on non-federal, non-Tribal and non-municipal lands.

Fire officials continue urging residents and visitors to avoid activities that could ignite dry vegetation, including campfires, charcoal fires and other spark-producing activities.

With hot temperatures, low humidity and gusty winds expected to continue across much of the state, fire managers say even a single spark can quickly develop into a dangerous wildfire.