Eagle County Emergency Responders Fund

07/29/2026

Keeping another hero in our hearts💔

We are deeply saddened to share that wildland firefighter Nathan Matthews, 43, of Lincoln, Nebraska, died Friday from injuries sustained while responding to the Knowles Fire in western Colorado on June 27. Nate had been receiving medical care for burn injuries sustained during the incident.

Nate was a dedicated member of the Rifle Helitack crew out of Colorado and was one of five firefighters involved in a burnover during initial attack operations. Three firefighters – Emily Barker, Nick Hutcherson, and Sydney Watson – died at the scene.

Please keep Nate’s family and the wildland fire community in your thoughts. Information regarding memorial services for Nate will be released at a later date.

https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/fourth-firefighter-dies-following-knowles-fire-burnover-colorado

07/20/2026

Eagle County Sheriff's Office ❤️

This morning, we had the honor of paying our respects to Nicholas Dale, the helicopter pilot from Canada who gave his life while fighting the Gold Mountain Fire.

We pause to remember his courage, dedication, and selfless service. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family, friends, fellow firefighters, and all those mourning his loss.

Thank you for your service and your sacrifice. May you rest in peace.

***

Esta mañana tuvimos el honor de rendir homenaje a Nicholas Dale, el piloto de helicóptero canadiense que dio su vida luchando contra el incendio de Gold Mountain.

Recordamos su valentía, dedicación y servicio desinteresado. Nuestras más sentidas condolencias están con su familia, amigos, compañeros bomberos y todos aquellos que lamentan su pérdida.

Gracias por tu servicio y tu sacrificio. Que descanses en paz.

07/20/2026

And in Avon…..our Community honors the fallen. Thanks for all who showed up today to honor another hero gone too soon

07/06/2026

Thinking of the families and friends mourning the anniversary💔

As the Week of Remembrance comes to a close, we reflect on the lessons learned from past tragedies and reaffirm our commitment to learning, adapting, and looking out for one another.

Today, we remember the Storm King 14, whose sacrifice continues to shape the way we prepare, lead, and operate in an increasingly complex fire environment. Their legacy lives on in every lesson learned, every risk assessed, and every conversation that strengthens our safety culture.

As the National Wildfire Coordinating Group and wildland fire communities close this week of reflection, let us carry those lessons forward—not only in memory of those we've lost, but in our commitment to one another and to those who continue to answer the call.

06/28/2026

Prayers out to the family and fire community💔💔💔❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service is devastated to share that three wildland firefighters lost their lives on Saturday, June 27, as part of an interagency response to the Knowles and Gore fires along the Colorado-Utah border. Additionally, two crew members were injured in the line of duty and have been transported to a hospital.

Our immediate focus is on supporting their families, friends, and fellow crewmates during this incredibly difficult time.

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service stands united with the USDA Forest Service in grief and in our unwavering support for the loved ones left behind. Their bravery, dedication, and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Additional details will be shared as they are able to be released.