The firefighter injured in the East Ute Plaza Fire on March 17th recently gave an interview on the terrifying experience. The fire spread quickly near the Ute Plaza in Fort Duchesne, closing Highway 40 due to low visibility and ultimately burning 20 acres. The fire was especially unpredictable due to erratic winds and, at one point, firefighter Kyle Allred had to run uphill toward safety. “I started running as quick as I could and got almost to the top and then I slipped and fell,” Allred shared in an interview with KSL. “From my belt down to the middle of my thigh was on fire. It was terrifying. I just had that feeling for a split second that I was going to die.” During that moment of panic, one thing made a difference. “The thought that God put in my mind was, ‘Get home to your wife and kids,’” said Allred. “I pushed off the ground and it was divine help that got me up on my feet into the guardrail.” Allred was treated at the University of Utah Burn Center for over 3 weeks before heading home to continue his recovery. A double elimination cornhole tournament has been organized to help the Allred family with medical expenses. ‘Toss for a Hero: The ‘Ring of Fire’ Cornhole Fundraiser’ is happening May 2nd at 2pm at 8000 East 10512 North in Tridell.
