Washington Leaders Demand Answers After Firefighters Arrested by Border Patrol at Bear Gulch Fire

Washington state leaders are demanding answers after two firefighters working on the Bear Gulch fire were arrested this week by Border Patrol agents.

The arrests happened on the Olympic Peninsula, where crews have been battling the fire that has already scorched nearly 9,000 acres and remains just 13% contained. Video shows federal agents moving in on firefighters, lining them up, and photographing their IDs.

One crew member who witnessed the incident told KING 5 that his team was shocked to see agents approach. He said the two arrested men were well-respected members of the crew, adding, “He has a lot of experience. Everyone loves him.”

Customs and Border Protection later confirmed that the two firefighters are being held at a facility in Bellingham. Officials said both men were in the country illegally and one had a previous order of removal.

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson said he is “deeply concerned” and is pressing federal agencies for answers. Senator Patty Murray also criticized the arrests, calling them “immoral and dangerous.”

The fire continues to burn in Mason County and is expected to last until winter. Officials warn it could take months before containment is achieved.

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