CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – A firefighting helicopter went down in Yosemite National Park on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of two pilots during operations against the Dome Fire. The Eurocopter AS32 crashed at approximately 2:55 p.m. local time on Sept. 20 in Mariposa County. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the incident occurred amid firefighting activities. Both individuals aboard the aircraft lost their lives. The crash took place while ground crews and aircraft worked across rugged terrain within the California national park.
Precision Helicopters identified the deceased pilots as Greg King and Ryan Cutter. King possessed extensive experience supporting wildland firefighting, including missions in Alaska. The Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection noted he had collaborated with its crews on numerous fires. Following notification to their families, the helicopter operator also identified Cutter. The two men operated the aircraft as part of the response to the ongoing wildfire in Yosemite.
Officials involved in the response stated the helicopter was engaged in water bucket operations when it crashed near the Ostrander Lake region. Helicopters played a crucial role in supporting firefighting efforts throughout the remote fire zone. Their responsibilities included water drops, transporting personnel, and delivering supplies to locations with limited ground access. The crash added a tragic aviation incident to an emergency response that had already mobilized hundreds of firefighters and multiple aircraft.
Dome Fire Grows to 3,420 Acres and Remains 15% Contained
As of Sept. 22, the Dome Fire expanded to 3,420 acres and was 15% contained, according to California’s current incident data. The blaze started on Sept. 15 north of Wawona Dome within Yosemite National Park. Its cause remains under investigation. Firefighters continue efforts to contain the flames, which are burning through timber and heavy ground fuels. Previous fire footprints and natural granite formations also influence the terrain around suppression activities.
On Sept. 21, the National Park Service reported 581 personnel working on the fire as crews worked to reinforce containment lines. Conditions challenged firefighters across steep, rugged wilderness. Crews also managed spot fires and areas laden with dead and downed vegetation. Aircraft remained active in supporting ground operations through water drops and logistical missions. Fire managers directed resources toward nearby communities while maintaining suppression efforts across the main fire zone and its northern sections.
Federal Agencies Probe Helicopter Crash
The National Transportation Safety Board and federal aviation authorities are conducting investigations into the helicopter crash. No cause has been publicly announced. The FAA identified the aircraft as a Eurocopter AS32 and confirmed the crash occurred during firefighting operations near Mariposa. Investigators will examine the aircraft, operational records, and other available evidence before reaching conclusions. To date, authorities have not linked the crash to weather, mechanical failure, or any other specific factor.
While the fire continues, Yosemite National Park remains open, though some areas are closed due to fire activity. Officials shut down the Ostrander Lake Trail, along with regions south of it, including trails around Chilnualna Falls and nearby backcountry routes. No evacuation orders or warnings have been issued in the latest update. The Dome Fire remains active as crews persist with suppression efforts while federal investigators look into the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of King and Cutter.
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