The death tally of the Colorado wildfires has risen to four as another firefighter lay down his life to fight the blazes. As reported by the New York Post, he tragically died on Friday, July 24.
The firefighter was named as 43-year-old Nathan Matthews of Licoln, Nebraska. He died from his burn injuries he sustained while fighting the Colorado-Utah border fires.
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service Chief Brian Fennessy said that "this is another heartbreaking loss for our wildland fire family."
Matthews and his crew had been surrounded by fires in what's called a "burnover". It's a pretty terrifying situation, where a fire ends up spreading through all the exits, blocking every firefighter in.
They were deployed in Mesa County, Colorado, as a Helitack crew. Helitack crews are typically deployed into remote areas via helicopter in order to fight dangerous new fires that have the potential to expand and cause issues.
At the time, they had tried to shield themselves from the fire using the equipment they had - tent-like emergency shelters. But, it wasn't enough.
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Three Other Firefighters Died at the Scene
At the time, the Fire Service had explained, "Our immediate focus is on supporting their families, friends, and fellow crewmates during this incredibly difficult time. Their bravery, dedication, and sacrifice will never be forgotten."
They were later named as 38-year-old Emily Barker; 26-year-old Sydney Watson; and Nick Hutcherson. Matthews as well as another firefighter were present at the scene, and were taken to hospital. The condition of the fifth firefighter is currently unknown, and no update has been given.
As of July 25, Watson, Hutcherson, and Barker were given full rites and honored at a service earlier in July. However, a memorial service for Matthews hasn't been set up yet.
People on social media were quick to honor the lives of the firefighters that had died. One commenter wrote, "Wildfires are relentless, but so are the men and women who stand between the flames and those in harm's way.""
"These four firefighters embodied the highest ideals of the fire service - honor, selflessness, dedication, and unwavering commitment to others."
May they rest in peace. We thank them for making the ultimate sacrifice to protect those in need.
