CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – A firefighting helicopter went down in Yosemite National Park on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of two pilots during efforts against the Dome Fire. The Eurocopter AS32 crashed around 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 happened as ground crews and aircraft operated across rugged terrain within the California national park.
Precision Helicopters identified the pilots as Greg King and Ryan Cutter. King possessed extensive experience in wildland firefighting support, including roles in Alaska. The Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection stated he had collaborated with its crews on multiple fires. Following notification to the pilots’ families, the helicopter operator also confirmed Cutter’s identity. These men operated the aircraft as part of the effort to control the active wildfire in Yosemite.
Officials involved in the response indicated that the helicopter was performing water bucket operations when it crashed near Ostrander Lake. Helicopters played a vital role in supporting firefighting teams across the remote fire zone, including 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 already mobilized hundreds of firefighters and multiple aircraft.
Dome Fire expands to 3,420 acres
As of September 22, the Dome Fire had grown to 3,420 acres and remained 15% contained, based on California’s latest incident data. The fire started on September 15, north of Wawona Dome within Yosemite National Park. Its cause is still under investigation. Firefighters continue efforts to contain the flames advancing through dense timber and heavy ground fuels. Previous fire footprints and natural granite formations have also influenced the terrain surrounding suppression activities.
On September 21, the National Park Service reported 581 personnel assigned to the fire as crews focused on strengthening containment lines. Conditions across steep and rugged wilderness posed significant challenges. Crews also managed spot fires and areas densely covered with dead and fallen vegetation. Aircraft continued supporting ground operations with water drops and logistical support. Fire managers strategically positioned resources around nearby communities, while maintaining suppression efforts across the main fire area and its northern sections.
Federal agencies probe helicopter incident
National Transportation Safety Board and federal aviation authorities are conducting an investigation into the helicopter crash. No cause has been officially announced yet. The FAA described the aircraft as a Eurocopter AS32 and stated that the accident happened during firefighting operations near Mariposa. Investigators typically review aircraft data, operational records, and other available evidence before drawing conclusions. To date, no findings have been released linking the incident to weather conditions, mechanical failure, or other specific factors.
While the fire continues to burn, Yosemite National Park remains open; however, certain areas have been closed due to fire-related hazards. Officials shut down the Ostrander Lake Trail and regions south of it, along with trails around Chilnualna Falls and adjacent backcountry routes. No evacuation orders or warnings have been issued in the latest park update. The Dome Fire remains active, and firefighting efforts persist as federal investigators examine the fatal helicopter crash that claimed the lives of King and Cutter.
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