Hickenlooper Requests Swift DOI Investigation Into Knowles Fire Tragedy

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper sent a letter to the Department of the Interior requesting a swift and thorough investigation into the Knowles Fire that tragically resulted in the deaths of four firefighters and injured one other.

"A comprehensive and timely investigation into the moments and decisions that led to these heartbreaking losses will not only help families find solace, it will provide us with information we need to save future lives," Hickenlooper wrote. "This investigation will provide a critical window into the final moments of the four members of the Rifle Interagency Helitack Crew who lost their lives-Nick Hutcherson, Emily Barker, Sydney Watson, and Nathan Matthews-in responding to the Knowles fire that day, along with a fifth wildland firefighter who is still recovering from severe burns."

He continued: "We have confidence that your investigation will include a full analysis of decisions made on the day of the event, as well as higher-level direction that led to the Rifle Helitack Crew's response that day. This should incorporate an analysis of management decisions and structures that informed on-the-ground operations that day-including the structure of the U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS) itself, which has not been authorized by Congress… Additionally, the review should analyze the directive to presume a "full suppression strategy applied to every wildfire under DOI management," despite scientific evidence that a maximum suppression approach makes wildfires more severe over time."

Last week, Hickenlooper took to the Senate floor to pay tribute to the fallen fighters and demand action to prevent more destructive wildfires, which have already burned more than 240,000 acres across Colorado this year.

Read the full text of the letter HERE and below:

Dear Secretary Burgum and Secretary Rollins:

We write to urge you to work swiftly and thoroughly on your investigation into the incident on the Gore and Knowles Fires on June 27, 2026, that led to the tragic deaths of four firefighters. A comprehensive and timely investigation into the moments and decisions that led to these heartbreaking losses will not only help families find solace, it will provide us with information we need to save future lives.

This investigation will provide a critical window into the final moments of the four members of the Rifle Interagency Helitack Crew who lost their lives-Nick Hutcherson, Emily Barker, Sydney Watson, and Nathan Matthews-in responding to the Knowles fire that day, along with a fifth wildland firefighter who is still recovering from severe burns. As we mourn the lives of those lost and maintain hopes for the fifth crew member's full recovery, more information about the entirety of the incident can support the healing of loved ones and the questions of the community.

We have confidence that your investigation will include a full analysis of decisions made on the day of the event, as well as higher-level direction that led to the Rifle Helitack Crew's response that day. This should incorporate an analysis of management decisions and structures that informed on-the-ground operations that day-including the structure of the U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS) itself, which has not been authorized by Congress. This review should examine whether the formation or management of the USWFS played any role in decisions regarding response to the Knowles fire. Additionally, the review should analyze the directive to presume a "full suppression strategy applied to every wildfire under DOI management," despite scientific evidence that a maximum suppression approach makes wildfires more severe over time.

Both the Forest Service and the Department of the Interior have seen major staffing losses over the past two years. Morale has been concerningly low for the wildland firefighters remaining in their positions. We recognize that like us, you prioritize and deeply value the safety of our wildland firefighters. We believe that your investigation, and full analysis of what happened leading up to and on the day of June 27, will support that shared safety ethic and reinforce the morale of our public servants.

We appreciate your prompt attention to this pressing matter. We request an interim briefing for our offices and regular updates on the progress of your investigation.

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