Adams County Confined Space Fire

On July 25th, 2026 around 06:24 Adams County Fire Rescue Engine 11 responded to illegal burn at E. 70th Ave. and I-25 in Adams County. Engine 11 arrived to light smoke a coming from the hatch of a tunnel underneath the highway and requested a 2 additional engines. Crews opened the hatch under the highway and immediately found a working confined space fire, pulled a line in for fire attack which was quickly put under control. The North Area Technical Rescue Team members were requested to the scene to assist with the incident, as well as hazmat operations. Adams County Fire drone operations team flew a drone inside the tunnel and ultimately discovered a body. A confined space operation was then organized and executed as the body was removed from the tunnel. The cause of the fire is currently being investigated. One firefighter suffered mild hand burns, but immediately returned to the scene. Additional information provided by Adams County Fire Rescue

Initial Response:

Adams County: Engine 11

Added:

Adams County: Battalion 11, Chief 14, SAM 11, Engine 13, Engine 12, Medic 11, Medic 12, Medic 13, Hazmat 12 & Arson 12

Thornton Fire Department: Rescue 75 & Medic 74

Westminster Fire Department: Truck 2 & Rescue 2

 Adams County Sheriff’s Office & CDOT