NASCAR Driver Garrett Smithley’s Father Returns Home After Battling Los Angeles Wildfires

R.K. Smithley, father of NASCAR driver Garrett Smithley, has returned home after a demanding 10-day deployment combating the Hughes Fire near Los Angeles. As a seasoned private aircraft firefighter with over a decade of experience, this mission marked the most public exposure of his career.
The Hughes Fire, which erupted near Castaic Lake, rapidly expanded to nearly 10,000 acres, prompting the evacuation of over 30,000 residents. Firefighters, including R.K. Smithley, utilized aerial strategies to contain the blaze, achieving 14% containment despite challenging conditions.
.@GarrettSmithley 's father has returned home after 10 days fighting wildfires in LA, which Garrett says is the most public his father's work has ever been in 11 years as a private aircraft firefighter.
— Steven Taranto (@STaranto92) January 23, 2025
That and his 2025 with @SSGLR0708 on @CBSSports:https://t.co/SKrzJj9XNV https://t.co/j8t5FcOsKM
R.K. Smithley piloted a DC-10 Air Tanker, executing multiple flights to drop fire retardant over affected areas. His efforts were captured on video, showcasing the critical role of aerial firefighting in managing such disasters.

Garrett Smithley expressed immense pride in his father’s contributions, highlighting the significance of his work during this crisis. The Smithley family’s experience underscores the dedication of firefighters and their families in protecting communities from natural disasters.