Sept. 21 (UPI) — Two people died when a helicopter crashed while conducting water-bucket drops to fight a wildfire in Yosemite National Park in California, aviation officials said.
The crash took place Sunday afternoon near Mariposa, northwest of Fresco, Calif., Federal Aviation Administration officials said. One crew member and one passenger were on board the Eurocopter AS32 when it “crashed under unknown circumstances while on water-bucket drops,” the FAA said.
The agency and the National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the incident.
The Dome Fire, in a remote area of Yosemite, has burned more than 3,000 acres since it started Tuesday and was 15% contained by Monday, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection said on its website. The cause of the fire was under investigation.
FlyPrecision, a firefighting contractor, posted on social media that the two people were part of its team.
“It is with unimaginable sadness and broken hearts that we share the loss of two beloved members of our team,” the company said. “We are devastated by this loss and are struggling to find the words. Please keep their families, loved ones and our entire team in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”
Yosemite National Park is nearly 1,200 square miles. It takes up part of four counties; the Dome Fire is so far contained to Mariposa County. It’s also a World Heritage Site.
Source: U.S. News
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