CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – A tragic incident occurred when a firefighting helicopter crashed within Yosemite National Park, resulting in the deaths of two pilots involved in efforts against the Dome Fire. The Eurocopter AS32 went down in Mariposa County around 2:55 p.m. on Sept. 20. The aircraft was supporting firefighting teams operating in rugged, difficult terrain. Federal aviation authorities confirmed that both individuals aboard the helicopter lost their lives. The crash happened near the Ostrander Lake area as aerial resources played a key role in the broader wildfire suppression.
Precision Helicopters identified the deceased pilots as Greg King and Ryan Cutter. Both were actively engaged in the wildfire suppression when the incident occurred. King was a seasoned pilot with extensive experience supporting wildland fire operations and had worked with firefighting units in Alaska on multiple missions. The Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection acknowledged his longstanding service following the crash. Precision Helicopters also verified Cutter’s identity after notifying his family members.
According to officials, the helicopter was engaged in water bucket operations prior to the accident. Aircraft like this play a vital role in Yosemite’s remote sections, where steep terrain restricts ground access. Their tasks include water drops, transporting personnel, and delivering supplies. Hundreds of firefighters have been working on containment lines around the Dome Fire. The crash highlights the risks faced during an already complex wildfire response involving crews, aircraft, and backcountry operations.
Dome Fire Continues to Spread in Yosemite
As of Sept. 22, the Dome Fire covered 3,420 acres and was 15% contained, according to California incident updates. The wildfire was first reported on Sept. 15 north of Wawona Dome in Yosemite National Park. Its cause remains undetermined. Firefighters have faced challenges posed by heavy ground fuels, timber, and rugged terrain as they work along the fire perimeter. The landscape surrounding the fire includes natural granite formations and areas affected by previous fires, complicating suppression efforts.
On Sept. 21, the National Park Service reported a personnel count of 581 working on the incident. Crews have continued to construct and reinforce containment lines across remote park sections. They are also tackling spot fires and dense fallen vegetation. Aircraft provide crucial water drops and logistical support for ground teams operating in the affected zones. Yosemite remains largely open, although closures persist near the active fire zone and in some backcountry routes.
Investigators Probe the Deadly Helicopter Incident
The National Transportation Safety Board and federal aviation authorities are conducting an investigation into the helicopter crash. No cause has been officially announced. Federal records confirm the aircraft was a Eurocopter AS32 involved in firefighting activities near Mariposa. As part of the investigation, authorities will analyze the wreckage, flight data, and other relevant evidence. To date, no links have been made to weather conditions, mechanical failures, or any specific factors. The exact cause of the crash remains undetermined.
Fire restrictions and closures continue across parts of southern Yosemite as firefighting efforts on the Dome Fire persist. The Ostrander Lake Trail and areas south of it remain closed. Trails around Chilnualna Falls and nearby backcountry routes are also impacted. Park officials have not issued any evacuation orders or warnings in the latest updates. Fire crews continue suppression activities while investigators examine the fatal helicopter crash that resulted in the deaths of King and Cutter during the ongoing wildfire response in California.