Today, Governor Polis ordered flags to fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset Sunday, July 5, 2026 to honor the lives, bravery, and sacrifice of three U.S. Wildland Fire Service firefighters who died responding to the Knowles Fire in Mesa County. The public memorial for Emily Barker, Nick Hutcherson, and Sydney Watson will be held Sunday, July 5th at the Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park at 11 a.m. MT.

“These three brave heroes ran towards the flames, put themselves in harm's way, and gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect Coloradans, our communities, and our families. This Sunday, to honor their lives, flags will fly at half-staff across the state to show Colorado’s gratitude for their bravery. My heart goes out to the friends, family, loved ones, and fellow crew members who mourn the loss to Emily, Nick, and Sydney,” said Governor Polis.

Governor Polis previously released a statement outlining the state's coordination with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service to rescue and evacuate two injured firefighters hurt in the line of duty with one of the Division of Fire Prevention and Control’s Bell 205 helicopters and authorized the National Guard to support efforts to recover the three firefighters who gave their lives in response to the Knowles Fire. The Knowles Fire later merged with several others to be known as the Snyder Fire. As of Thursday July 2, 2026 the Snyder Fire has burned over 30,000 acres and is 49% contained and all evacuation orders were lifted on July 1, 2026 at 7 p.m.