safety
3 firefighters killed in Western wildfire were trying to shield themselves from flames
By Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC) - San Antonio News
· June 29, 2026
· 5 min read
Three firefighters killed over the weekend in a wildfire along the Colorado-Utah border were trying to shield themselves from flames by deploying tent-like shelters when they were overcome, authorities said. The firefighters were part of a specialized crew that goes into remote areas by helicopte...
Key takeaway Investigators didn't blame anyone for the deaths in 2013, but cited radio communication problems that contributed to the Granite Mountain Hotshots becoming trapped.
Why this matters in Alamo Heights News
The tragic loss of three firefighters in a Western wildfire serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who battle blazes in remote areas. For Alamo Heights residents, this incident may seem distant, but it highlights the importance of supporting local firefighting efforts, particularly in areas prone to wildfires. As a community within the San Antonio area, Alamo Heights is not immune to the risks of wildfires, especially during periods of dry weather. The specialized crew that the victims were part of, known as a Helitack crew, is a crucial component in preventing new fires from spreading, and their work has implications for wildfire management in Texas. As the state experiences its own share of wildfires, the bravery and sacrifice of these firefighters should prompt local authorities to review and strengthen their emergency response protocols, ensuring that firefighters in Bexar County have the necessary resources and support to combat wildfires effectively.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC) - San Antonio News . Alamo Heights News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSAT 12 (ABC) - San Antonio News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: June 29, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC) - San Antonio News ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Three firefighters killed over the weekend in a wildfire along the Colorado-Utah border were trying to shield themselves from flames by deploying tent-like shelters when they were overcome, authorities said. The firefighters were part of a specialized crew that goes into remote areas by helicopte...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 29, 2026 by KSAT 12 (ABC) - San Antonio News and curated for Alamo Heights News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC) - San Antonio News. To learn more about how Alamo Heights News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from Alamo Heights News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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