Three firefighters were killed and at least two others have been injured while battling an out-of-control wildfire on the Colorado-Utah border, according to authorities.
The flamejumpers died Saturday while responding to a series of small wildfires that began in eastern Utah’s Grand County before spreading into Colorado – where the flames merged with more wildfires to form one giant blaze, the Snyder Mesa Fire.
Two other first responders were hurt and transported to a local hospital, according to the US Wildland Fire Service. The nature of their injuries was not immediately clear.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis declared a disaster emergency response to the wildfire, which has burned an estimated 28,000 acres — twice the size of Manhattan — and is at 0% containment, according to a statement from Polis’ office.
Residents in some Mesa County communities have been told to evacuate the areas, as the Colorado National Guard was also responding to the wildfire.
“Our immediate focus is on supporting their families, friends, and fellow crewmates during this incredibly difficult time,” the fire service said in a statement early Sunday. “Their bravery, dedication, and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
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