CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – A firefighting helicopter crashed within Yosemite National Park resulting in the deaths of two pilots while conducting wildfire suppression efforts against the Dome Fire. The Eurocopter AS32 went down in Mariposa County at approximately 2:55 p.m. on Sept. 20. The aircraft was supporting firefighting crews operating in rugged terrain. Federal aviation authorities confirmed that both individuals aboard the helicopter lost their lives. The incident took place near the Ostrander Lake region as aerial resources contributed to the overall firefighting strategy.
Precision Helicopters identified the fallen pilots as Greg King and Ryan Cutter. Both were actively engaged in the wildfire suppression mission when the crash occurred. King possessed extensive experience flying in support of wildland fire operations and had previously worked with firefighting teams in Alaska on numerous missions. His longstanding involvement with the Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection was acknowledged after the crash. Additionally, Precision Helicopters verified Cutter’s identity following notifications to his family members.
Authorities reported that the helicopter was engaged in water bucket operations prior to the accident. Aircraft like this assist firefighters across Yosemite, especially in areas where steep terrain restricts ground access. Their roles include water drops, moving personnel, and transporting supplies. Hundreds of firefighters have been working on containment lines surrounding the Dome Fire. The crash marked a tragic aviation incident amidst an already complex wildfire response involving crews, aircraft, and backcountry efforts.
Dome Fire Continues to Spread in Yosemite National Park
As of Sept. 22, the Dome Fire had burned 3,420 acres and remained 15% contained, according to current California incident updates. The fire originated on Sept. 15 north of Wawona Dome in Yosemite National Park. Authorities have not yet determined the cause. Firefighters have faced challenges such as dense timber, heavy ground fuels, and rugged terrain while working around the fire’s perimeter. The landscape includes natural granite formations and areas previously affected by fires, which complicate containment efforts.
On Sept. 21, the National Park Service reported that 581 personnel were assigned to the incident. Crews continued to build and reinforce containment lines across remote sections of the park. They also managed spot fires and areas with dense fallen vegetation. Aircraft provided essential water drops and logistical support to ground teams operating throughout the affected zone. Most of Yosemite remained open, although closures persisted near the active fire zone and in surrounding backcountry routes.
Investigations Underway into the Deadly Helicopter Crash
The National Transportation Safety Board along with federal aviation agencies are examining the helicopter crash. Authorities have not released any cause at this stage. Federal records list the aircraft as a Eurocopter AS32 involved in firefighting activities near Mariposa. Investigators will analyze wreckage, flight logs, and other relevant evidence during the investigation. No links have been established between the crash and weather conditions, mechanical issues, or other specific factors. An official cause has yet to be determined regarding the aircraft’s descent.
While firefighting restrictions and closures remain active across parts of southern Yosemite, crews continue their efforts on the Dome Fire. The Ostrander Lake Trail and areas south of it remain closed. Trails near Chilnualna Falls and other backcountry routes are also affected. Authorities have not issued any evacuation warnings or orders in the latest park updates. Fire suppression activities proceed as investigators assess the tragic helicopter accident that claimed the lives of King and Cutter amid California’s wildfire response efforts.