4th firefighter dies from burn injuries battling Colorado's Knowles wildfire

A fourth firefighter has died from burn injuries sustained while battling the Knowles wildfire in western Colorado, marking a tragic escalation in the fight against the blaze. Nathan Matthews, 43, of Lincoln, Nebraska, succumbed to his injuries, the U.S. Department of the Interior confirmed.

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This is another heartbreaking loss for our wildland fire family.

U.S. Wildland Fire Service Chief Brian Fennessy described the loss as "another heartbreaking loss for our wildland fire family," referencing the three firefighters who previously died responding to the Knowles blaze. Fast-moving flames and gusty winds created unpredictable and dangerous conditions for the crews.

Five firefighters were caught in a "burnover" – a situation where a fire rapidly spreads and cuts off escape routes – during initial attack operations on the Knowles Fire. The fire originated near Knowles Canyon in Mesa County. It was later overtaken by the Snyder Fire, which began in Utah and quickly crossed into Colorado.

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We mourn the loss of Nate while continuing to grieve the deaths of Emily, Nick and Sydney. Our hearts are with their families, friends, crewmates and everyone impacted by this tragedy.

The Department of the Interior identified the combined incident as the Snyder Fire, which has scorched over 28,000 acres along the Colorado-Utah border. Officials named the three other firefighters who died at the scene as Emily Barker, 38, Nick Hutcherson, 27, and Sydney Watson, 27, all assigned to the Rifle Helitack crew. Matthews had been receiving medical care for his burns. The identity of a fifth firefighter involved in the burnover has not yet been released.

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We remain committed to supporting those affected and honoring the legacy of all four firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.