CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – Amid ongoing firefighting efforts in Yosemite National Park, a helicopter involved in combating the Dome Fire went down on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of two pilots. The incident occurred at approximately 2:55 p.m. local time on September 20 in Mariposa County. The Yosemite National Park was the scene of the crash during active firefighting operations, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. The aircraft crashed while supporting efforts against the wildfire, which is still being contained. Both crew members onboard lost their lives in the accident, which happened as ground crews and aircraft worked through rugged terrain within the park.
Precision Helicopters identified the deceased pilots as Greg King and Ryan Cutter. King brought extensive wildland firefighting experience, including assignments in Alaska, and had previously worked with the Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection on multiple fires. Following notification to the pilots’ families, the helicopter operator also identified Cutter. Both men were operating the aircraft as part of the response to the active wildfire burning in Yosemite.
The crash happened while the helicopter was performing water bucket tasks near the Ostrander Lake area, officials involved in the firefighting response confirmed. Helicopters have played a key role in supporting firefighting teams across the remote fire zone, conducting water drops, transporting personnel, and delivering supplies to hard-to-reach locations. The accident marked a tragic addition to the ongoing emergency effort, which has mobilized hundreds of firefighters and multiple aircraft to battle the flames.
Dome Fire expands to 3,420 acres
As of September 22, the Dome Fire has expanded to cover 3,420 acres and remains 15% contained, according to the latest incident data from California. The fire, which began on September 15 north of Wawona Dome within Yosemite National Park, is still under investigation regarding its cause. Firefighters continue efforts to contain the blaze as it spreads through timber and heavy ground fuels. Previous fire lines and natural granite formations are also part of the complex terrain around the suppression efforts.
The National Park Service reported that 581 personnel were assigned to the fire on September 21 as they reinforced containment lines. Conditions remain challenging, with crews working in steep and rugged wilderness, managing spot fires, and dealing with areas dense with dead and downed vegetation. Aircraft continue to assist ground crews through water drops and logistical support. Fire managers have positioned resources around nearby communities while maintaining suppression efforts across the main fire perimeter and its northern sections.
Investigation underway into helicopter crash by federal authorities
The National Transportation Safety Board along with federal aviation officials are currently examining the circumstances surrounding the helicopter accident. No cause has yet been announced. The FAA has identified the aircraft as a Eurocopter AS32 and stated that the crash occurred during firefighting activities near Mariposa. Investigators typically review the aircraft, operational records, and other available evidence before drawing conclusions. As of now, authorities have not linked the incident to weather, mechanical failure, or any other specific factor.
While the wildfire continues to burn, Yosemite National Park remains open, although certain areas are closed due to fire-related precautions. The Ostrander Lake Trail and regions south of it, along with trails around Chilnualna Falls and nearby backcountry routes, have been shut down. The latest park update did not include any evacuation orders or warnings. The Dome Fire remains active, with firefighting teams maintaining suppression efforts while federal investigators continue to examine the fatal helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Greg King and Ryan Cutter.