CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – During firefighting efforts against the Dome Fire, a helicopter operating in Yosemite National Park went down on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of two pilots. The Eurocopter AS32 crashed around 2:55 p.m. local time on Sept. 20 in Mariposa County. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the aircraft was engaged in firefighting activities when the accident occurred. Both individuals aboard the helicopter lost their lives. The incident took place amidst efforts by ground crews and aircraft navigating rugged terrain within the California park.
Precision Helicopters identified the deceased as Greg King and Ryan Cutter. King had a wealth of experience supporting wildland firefighting, including assignments in Alaska. The Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection noted his collaboration with their crews on numerous fires. Following notification of the pilots’ families, the helicopter operator also identified Cutter. The two men were operating the helicopter as part of the response to the ongoing wildfire burning in Yosemite.
Officials involved in the response stated the helicopter was performing water bucket operations when it crashed near the Ostrander Lake area. Helicopters played a vital role in supporting firefighting teams across the remote fire zone, including water drops, personnel transport, and supply delivery to difficult-to-access locations. The crash represents a tragic addition to an emergency operation that had already mobilized hundreds of firefighters and multiple aircraft.
Dome Fire Expands to 3,420 Acres, Containment at 15%
As of Sept. 22, the Dome Fire had grown to 3,420 acres and was 15% contained, according to California’s latest incident data. The blaze originated on Sept. 15 north of Wawona Dome within Yosemite National Park. Its exact cause remains under investigation. Firefighters continue efforts to contain the flames, which are moving through dense timber and heavy ground fuels. Previous fire footprints and natural granite formations also influence the terrain surrounding suppression activities.
The National Park Service reported 581 personnel assigned to the fire on Sept. 21 as they reinforced containment lines. Crews faced difficult conditions across rugged, steep wilderness areas, managing spot fires and areas with abundant dead and downed vegetation. Aircraft continued to support ground operations with water drops and logistical support. Fire managers coordinated resources around nearby communities while maintaining suppression efforts across the primary fire zone and its northern sections.
Investigation Underway Following Helicopter Crash
The National Transportation Safety Board along with federal aviation authorities are examining the circumstances of the helicopter accident. No cause has been officially announced. The FAA identified the helicopter as a Eurocopter AS32 and confirmed the crash occurred during firefighting operations near Mariposa. Investigators are expected to analyze the aircraft, operational records, and other evidence before drawing conclusions. At this stage, no findings link the crash to weather, mechanical issues, or any other specific factors.
While the fire continues, Yosemite National Park remains accessible, though some areas in the southern section are closed. Officials shut down the Ostrander Lake Trail and sections south of it, as well as trails around Chilnualna Falls and nearby backcountry routes. No evacuation orders or warnings have been issued in the latest park update. The Dome Fire remains active, with crews working to suppress it while federal investigators look into the fatal helicopter crash that claimed the lives of King and Cutter.