CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – A firefighting helicopter operated by Yosemite National Park crashed during efforts to combat the Dome Fire, resulting in the deaths of two pilots. The incident took place in Mariposa County around 2:55 p.m. on Sept. 20, while the Eurocopter AS32 was supporting wildfire suppression in challenging, rugged terrain. The aircraft was aiding firefighting crews battling the blaze when the crash happened. Federal aviation authorities confirmed that both individuals onboard the helicopter died. The accident site was near the Ostrander Lake area, where aerial units were assisting in the overall firefighting operation involving ground and air resources.
Precision Helicopters identified the fallen pilots as Greg King and Ryan Cutter. Both men were engaged in wildfire mitigation efforts when the helicopter went down. King brought extensive experience supporting wildland fire operations and had previously worked with firefighting teams in Alaska on numerous assignments. The Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection acknowledged his long-standing involvement with its efforts following the crash. In addition, Precision Helicopters confirmed Cutter’s identity after notifying his family members.
According to authorities, the helicopter had been performing water bucket drops prior to the incident. Aircraft like this are crucial for supporting firefighters in Yosemite’s steep terrains, where ground access is limited. Their tasks include water drops, moving personnel, and transporting supplies. Hundreds of firefighters are involved in establishing containment lines around the Dome Fire. The crash marks a tragic aviation incident amid an already complex wildfire response involving personnel, aircraft, and backcountry operations.
Dome Fire Continues to Grow in Yosemite
As of September 22, the Dome Fire had burned 3,420 acres and was 15% contained, according to California incident updates. The wildfire started on September 15 north of Wawona Dome within Yosemite National Park. Its cause remains undetermined. Firefighters face difficult terrain, heavy ground fuels, and dense timber while working along the fire’s perimeter. The landscape is further shaped by natural granite formations and areas previously affected by wildfires, complicating suppression efforts.
On September 21, the National Park Service reported a deployment of 581 personnel to manage the incident. Crews continued constructing and reinforcing containment lines in remote sections of the park. They also responded to spot fires and dense fallen vegetation. Aircraft provided water drops and logistical support to ground teams operating within the affected zones. While most of Yosemite remains open, park authorities imposed closures near the active fire zone and backcountry routes surrounding it.
Investigation Underway into Fatal Helicopter Crash
The National Transportation Safety Board along with federal aviation officials are examining the circumstances of the helicopter crash. No cause has been publicly announced. Records show that the aircraft involved was a Eurocopter AS32 engaged in firefighting near Mariposa. Investigators are expected to analyze wreckage, flight data, and other evidence as part of their inquiry. To date, no link has been established between the crash and weather conditions, mechanical failure, or any other specific factor. The investigation continues to determine the cause of this deadly accident.
Restrictions on fire activity and closures remain in effect across parts of southern Yosemite as firefighting efforts persist on the Dome Fire. Officials have closed the Ostrander Lake Trail along with areas south of it. Trails around Chilnualna Falls and other remote routes also remain affected. Authorities have not issued any evacuation orders or warnings in recent park updates. Fire crews continue suppression activities while investigators examine the tragic helicopter crash that resulted in the deaths of King and Cutter during California’s wildfire response.