30 years later, retired firefighter reflects on Oklahoma City bombing
Share and Follow


On April 19, 1995, America was rocked by its first homegrown terrorist attack the Oklahoma City bombing. This Saturday, looks back at the heroes and the journalists who were there as the chaos unfolded. Tune in to “ON AIR LIVE: Oklahoma City bombing: 30 years later” at 9p/8C. Find out how to watch.

() Nearly 30 years after the bombing outside a federal building in Oklahoma City, a retired firefighter who responded to the scene is sharing his story to help other first responders navigate the trauma they face on their jobs.

On April 19, 1995, a truck bomb exploded in front of the Alfred P. Murrah federal building just after 9 a.m., killing 168 people, including 19 children, and injuring more than 500. The bombers were two former U.S. Army soldiers, Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols, who shared a hatred of the federal government.

Chris Fields, a firefighter who responded that day, said when he and his crew first arrived, he felt like they were all standing in shock, looking at the destruction of the nine-story building.

“If you would have told me right then, when I first saw the building, that there were only 168 fatalities, I would have thought that there was just no way, looking at the damage,” Fields said.

Fields was captured in a Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph from that day, holding the body of 1-year-old Baylee Almon, which became a national symbol of the bombing.

Fields said he struggled with feeling like he was singled out from the department in the photo but received support from colleagues who said it represents all first responders and the innocence lost that day.

“To look at it that way and take myself out of it, it’s really helped,” Fields said.

Since the bombing, Fields said Oklahoma City has risen “like a phoenix.”

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Ringing in the new year with a bang? Here's how to use fireworks safely

Start the New Year Safely: Expert Tips for Safe and Spectacular Fireworks Displays

Amidst the ongoing dry spell on the First Coast, fire specialists emphasize…
The road ahead for transit in New York City in 2026 includes fare hikes

Get Ready for Changes: NYC Transit Fare Increases on the Horizon for 2026

Zohran Mamdani, the newly inaugurated Mayor of New York City, made headlines…
Repeat offender truck driver charged with bank robbery after claiming C-4 explosives, firing on officers: feds

Notorious Truck Driver’s Crime Spree: From C-4 Threats to Bank Heist and Shootout with Police – Federal Charges Unveiled

A truck driver from North Carolina with a history of offenses now…
Iranian protesters bring regime to halt as fury soars over cost of living

Iranian Protests Escalate Amid Rising Cost of Living Crisis

In Iran, a wave of protests is challenging the government’s grip as…
Why my first meeting with Rob Reiner changed my life forever

How One Encounter with Rob Reiner Transformed My Career and Perspective

My first encounter with Rob Reiner took place on a bustling red…
What are federal child care funds? What to know amid planned funding freeze

Exploring Federal Child Care Funds: Key Insights as Funding Freeze Looms

The Trump administration has announced a nationwide suspension of child care funding…
Palmdale Street shooting on Jacksonville's Northwest side leaves man dead

New Year Chaos: Fireworks Dispute Sparks One of Two Jacksonville Shootings

Two shootings in Jacksonville on New Year’s Day left two individuals injured,…
Leonardo DiCaprio flaunts weight loss with younger girlfriend

Leonardo DiCaprio Showcases Weight Loss Alongside Younger Partner

As we edge closer to the new year, Leonardo DiCaprio appears to…