CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – The deaths of two pilots occurred when a firefighting helicopter crashed within Yosemite National Park during efforts to combat the Dome Fire. The Eurocopter AS32 went down in Mariposa County at approximately 2:55 p.m. on September 20. The aircraft was actively supporting firefighting crews in rugged terrain battling the wildfire. Federal aviation officials confirmed that both individuals on board the helicopter lost their lives. The accident took place near the Ostrander Lake region as aerial units contributed to the extensive firefighting operation.
Precision Helicopters identified the pilots as Greg King and Ryan Cutter. Both were engaged in firefighting duties when the crash occurred. King brought extensive experience in flying missions supporting wildland fire suppression, including numerous assignments with firefighting teams in Alaska. His long-standing involvement with Alaska’s Division of Forestry and Fire Protection was acknowledged after the incident. Precision Helicopters also verified Cutter’s identity following notifications to his family members.
Authorities reported that the helicopter was engaged in water bucket operations prior to the crash, as per released information. Aircraft like this often support firefighters in Yosemite’s steep terrain, where ground access is limited. Their work encompasses water drops, relocating personnel, and transporting supplies. Firefighters have also been working on containment lines around the Dome Fire. The crash marked a tragic aviation event within an already complex wildfire response involving ground crews, aircraft, and backcountry operations.
Dome Fire Continues to Spread in Yosemite
As of September 22, the Dome Fire had expanded to 3,420 acres and was 15% contained, according to current California incident updates. The wildfire began on September 15, north of Wawona Dome in Yosemite National Park, with its cause still under investigation. Firefighters face challenging conditions, including timber, heavy ground fuels, and difficult terrain, as they work along the fire’s perimeter. The landscape includes natural granite formations and areas affected by previous fires, complicating suppression efforts.
On September 21, the National Park Service reported a deployment of 581 personnel to the incident. Crews focused on building and reinforcing containment lines in remote parts of the park. They also responded to spot fires and areas with dense fallen vegetation. Aircraft provided water drops and logistical support to ground teams working across the affected zones. Most of Yosemite remained open, though closures persisted near the active fire area and backcountry routes surrounding the incident.
Federal Authorities Probe Fatal Helicopter Incident
The National Transportation Safety Board along with federal aviation officials are investigating the helicopter crash. No cause has yet been announced. Records indicate the aircraft involved was a Eurocopter AS32 operating in firefighting roles near Mariposa. The investigation will involve examining the wreckage, flight records, and other available evidence as part of the formal inquiry. Authorities have not linked the crash to weather conditions, mechanical failure, or other specific factors. No official determination has been made regarding the cause of the aircraft’s descent.
Fire restrictions and closures persist across parts of southern Yosemite as firefighting efforts continue on the Dome Fire. The Ostrander Lake Trail and nearby areas south of it remain closed. Trails around Chilnualna Falls and other backcountry routes are also affected. Authorities have not issued any evacuation orders or warnings in the latest park updates. Fire crews maintain suppression activities while investigators look into the fatal helicopter crash that resulted in the deaths of King and Cutter amid ongoing wildfire operations in California.