BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — An Alabama firefighter was identified as one of three killed over the weekend while battling wildfires in Colorado.
27-year-old Sydney Watson, of Warrior, died on June 27 while responding to the Knowles Fire in western Colorado, according to a release from the U.S. Department of the Interior and Agriculture. The two other firefighters killed were identified as 27-year-old Nick Hutcherson, of Arizona, and 38-year-old Emily Barker, of Michigan.
3 firefighters killed as wildfires stoked by heat, wind rage across the West
Additionally, two other firefighters were injured while battling the fire and are receiving medical care.
“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,” said U.S. Wildland Fire Service Chief Brian Fennessy. “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. Please join me and my family in keeping our thoughts and prayers with the families of the fallen and our injured firefighters and their families.”…