A tragic incident occurred on Sunday, September 20, when a firefighting helicopter crashed while attempting to combat the Dome Fire in Yosemite National Park, California. The crash resulted in the loss of two crew members, sparking a deep sense of grief within the firefighting community and beyond.
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The helicopter, a Eurocopter AS32, went down shortly before 3 p.m. local time, close to the secluded community of Mariposa, situated approximately 70 miles from Fresno. Both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) confirmed the details of the incident, which took place during ongoing efforts to extinguish the blaze.
At the time of the crash, the helicopter was engaged in aerial firefighting operations, employing a water bucket to help suppress the flames of the Dome Fire. This wildfire has consumed over 3,300 acres and was approximately 15 percent contained as of Monday, September 21, according to reports from CAL FIRE.
Among the deceased was Greg King, the pilot, whose identity was confirmed by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources. King was associated with FlyPrecision, the firefighting contractor responsible for the helicopter. The company expressed profound sorrow in an Instagram post, stating, “It is with unimaginable sadness and broken hearts that we share the loss of two beloved members of our team.” The post also requested thoughts and prayers for the families and loved ones affected by the tragedy.
The Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection also released a statement in remembrance of Greg King, describing him as a “cherished member” of the wildland fire community. The agency highlighted his extensive experience in wildland firefighting, noting that he had served in various capacities across Alaska and alongside the Division of Forestry and Fire Protection. They referred to him as a dedicated aviator and a dear friend, further emphasising his close ties to the organisation, remarking that many of his loved ones are currently employed there.
As of the latest updates, the identity of the second victim has not been disclosed, pending notifications to their family, in a show of respect for their privacy during this challenging time. The NTSB is set to lead an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, with support from the FAA.
The Dome Fire itself sparked near Wawona, California, on September 15, and more than a week later, approximately 580 firefighting personnel remain actively engaged in combating the flames. The crash site is located near Ostrander Lake, about nine miles south of the iconic El Capitan and seven miles northeast of Wawona, highlighting the remote and challenging nature of the terrain for firefighting efforts.
The incident underscores the risks faced by those in the firefighting profession, particularly during wildfire season, when aerial support is crucial in managing large-scale blazes. As investigations proceed, the entire firefighting community and the state of California mourn the loss of these two skilled individuals who dedicated their lives to protecting others from the ravages of fire.
As authorities continue to work towards containing the Dome Fire, the grief over the helicopter crash serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those on the frontlines of wildfire response efforts. With more information expected to emerge from the investigation, the memories of the fallen will remain forever etched in the hearts of their colleagues and the communities they served.