CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – Amid ongoing firefighting efforts against the Dome Fire in Yosemite National Park, a tragic incident occurred when a helicopter supporting wildfire suppression efforts crashed, resulting in the deaths of both pilots onboard. The Eurocopter AS32 went down in Mariposa County at approximately 2:55 p.m. on Sept. 20, during operations in rugged terrain to assist crews battling the blaze. Federal aviation officials have confirmed that all individuals aboard the aircraft perished in the crash. The incident took place near the Ostrander Lake area, where aerial resources have been instrumental in supporting the larger firefighting effort.
Precision Helicopters has identified the two pilots as Greg King and Ryan Cutter. Both were engaged in wildfire suppression activities at the time of the accident. King was known for his extensive experience flying in support of wildland fire operations and had previously worked with firefighting teams in Alaska on various assignments. The Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection acknowledged his long-standing involvement in its efforts following the crash. Meanwhile, Precision Helicopters verified Cutter’s identity after notifying his family members.
According to official statements, the helicopter was performing water bucket operations prior to the accident. Aircraft like this have been vital in supporting firefighters across areas of Yosemite where steep terrain makes ground access difficult. Their roles have included water drops, moving personnel, and transporting supplies. Over the course of the firefighting effort, hundreds of firefighters have worked on establishing containment lines around the Dome Fire. The crash underscores the inherent risks of wildfire aviation support in a complex emergency involving crews, aircraft, and remote backcountry activities.
Dome Fire Continues to Grow in Yosemite
As of Sept. 22, the Dome Fire expanded to 3,420 acres with only 15% containment, according to current California incident reports. The wildfire ignited on Sept. 15 north of Wawona Dome within Yosemite National Park. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Firefighters face challenges including dense timber, heavy ground fuels, and difficult terrain while working around the fire’s perimeter. The landscape is further complicated by natural granite formations and areas previously affected by fires, which remain part of ongoing suppression efforts.
On Sept. 21, the National Park Service reported that 581 personnel were engaged in managing the incident. Crews continued to construct and reinforce containment lines across remote sections of the park, addressing spot fires and areas with abundant fallen vegetation. Aircraft supported ground operations by delivering water and logistical aid throughout the affected zones. Most of Yosemite remains open, although closures are in effect near the active fire zone and along backcountry routes surrounding the site.
Authorities Investigate the Helicopter’s Deadly Crash
The National Transportation Safety Board along with federal aviation agencies are conducting an investigation into the fatal helicopter crash. No official cause has been announced. Federal records confirm the aircraft involved was a Eurocopter AS32 supporting firefighting efforts near Mariposa. Investigators are expected to examine the wreckage, flight logs, and other pertinent evidence as part of the investigation. To date, authorities have not linked the crash to weather conditions, mechanical failure, or any other specific factor. No definitive explanation has been provided for why the aircraft went down.
Fire restrictions and closures persist in parts of southern Yosemite as firefighting operations continue on the Dome Fire. Authorities have shut down the Ostrander Lake Trail and the areas south of it. Trails around Chilnualna Falls and other nearby backcountry routes are also affected. The latest information from park officials indicates that no evacuation orders or warnings have been issued. Fire crews remain focused on suppression activities while investigators probe the tragic helicopter accident that resulted in the deaths of Greg King and Ryan Cutter during the ongoing wildfire response in California.