CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – A helicopter engaged in firefighting operations in Yosemite National Park crashed on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of two pilots involved in combating the Dome Fire. The Eurocopter AS32 went down at approximately 2:55 p.m. local time on September 20 in Mariposa County. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the accident took place during firefighting activities. Tragically, both individuals on board lost their lives. The incident occurred amid efforts by ground crews and aircraft navigating rugged terrain within the California national park.
The pilots, identified by Precision Helicopters as Greg King and Ryan Cutter, brought significant experience supporting wildland fire suppression, including assignments in Alaska. The Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection stated that King had collaborated with its teams on numerous fires. Following notification of the pilots’ families, the helicopter operator also identified Cutter. The two men were operating the aircraft as part of the response to an active wildfire burning in Yosemite.
Officials involved in the response indicated the helicopter was performing water bucket operations when the crash occurred near the Ostrander Lake area. Helicopters played a vital role in supporting firefighting efforts across the remote blaze zone, including water drops, transporting personnel, and delivering supplies to locations with limited ground access. The crash marks a tragic addition to an ongoing emergency response that has mobilized hundreds of firefighters and multiple aircraft.
Dome Fire Expands to 3,420 Acres
As of September 22, the Dome Fire reached 3,420 acres and was 15% contained, based on California’s latest incident data. The blaze started on September 15 north of Wawona Dome in Yosemite National Park, with its cause still under investigation. Crews have been working to contain flames spreading through forests and dense ground fuels. Previous fire footprints and natural granite formations have also shaped the terrain around firefighting operations.
On September 21, the National Park Service reported 581 personnel assigned to the fire as they reinforced containment lines. Firefighters faced difficult conditions across steep, rugged wilderness, managing spot fires and areas with heavy dead and downed vegetation. Aircraft supported ground efforts through water drops and logistical support. Fire managers allocated resources around nearby communities and continued suppression activities across the main fire and its northern sections.
Investigation Underway Into Helicopter Fatality
The National Transportation Safety Board along with federal aviation authorities are conducting an investigation into the crash. No official cause has been announced yet. The FAA confirmed the aircraft as a Eurocopter AS32 and stated that the incident occurred during firefighting operations near Mariposa. Investigators typically analyze the aircraft, operational records, and other evidence before drawing conclusions. Authorities have not released any findings linking the crash to weather conditions, mechanical failure, or other specific factors.
Yosemite National Park remained accessible to visitors, although some parts of the park experienced closures related to the fire. The Ostrander Lake Trail and areas south of it, along with trails around Chilnualna Falls and nearby backcountry routes, were shut down. The latest park update did not include any evacuation orders or warnings. The Dome Fire remained active, with crews continuing suppression efforts as federal investigators examine the helicopter crash that resulted in the deaths of King and Cutter.