Governor Polis Releases Statement on Death of Heroic Firefighting Pilot in Gunnison While Responding to the Gold Mountain Fire in Ouray

Governor Polis announces Flags will fly at half-staff on the day of the memorial once selected

DENVER - Today, Governor Polis released the following statement following the death of Nicholas Dale, a frontline federal contracted Fire Aviation Pilot from Sooke, British Columbia, who was assigned to the Gold Mountain Fire in Ouray County. The Gold Mountain Fire has burned 36,259 acres, is 11% contained, and has 175 people under mandatory evacuation.

"I was devastated to hear that Nicholas Dale, a brave frontline fire aviation pilot, died battling the Gold Mountain Fire. I, and every Coloradan, am deeply grateful for the thousands of brave firefighters and pilots across the state protecting us and our communities. My heart goes out to the pilot's friends, family, and colleagues who mourn this immense loss. We are committed to supporting our brave firefighters and their families, and the State stands ready to support any investigation into this tragic incident. Once selected, state flags will be ordered to fly at half-staff on Nicholas's memorial date to honor his bravery and sacrifice," said Governor Polis.

Through the Behavioral Health Administration, the State is committed to supporting all frontline firefighters and those impacted by wildfires across the state. BHA provides a number of mental health services available to all Coloradans, including firefighters and fire victims including, Colorado LIFTS, which connects people in Colorado with a statewide network of 250+ mental health, substance use, crisis support, and care navigation services, the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line, and I Matter which provides youth 18 years of age and younger with a therapist for FREE and confidential counseling sessions.

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