A Firefighting Helicopter Has Crashed in the Wide Mouth 2 Fire

A firefighting helicopter carrying two people crashed Friday morning while working the massive Widemouth 2 Fire in central Utah, adding another dangerous chapter to what has already been a difficult wildfire season.

What We Know

The Federal Aviation Administration says a Sikorsky S-64 helicopter went down around 10 a.m. Friday near Richfield. Great Basin Team 2 confirmed the aircraft was supporting firefighting operations on the Widemouth 2 Fire in the Fishlake National Forest.

Condition of the Pilots

The condition of the two people aboard had not been officially released as of Friday afternoon. The Sevier County Sheriff’s Office said fire conditions initially prevented emergency personnel from safely reaching the crash site. KDXU News is awaiting official word on the pilots and will provide updates as more information is released.

Response from Governor Cox

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox also responded to the crash Friday, posting on X:

"Today personnel are responding to an incident regarding firefighting aviation near the Widemouth 2 Fire.  Wildland firefighting is among the most dangerous jobs in the world. Today is a painful reminder of the extraordinary risks these brave men and women accept to protect us."

Part of a Major Firefighting Force

The crash occurred as hundreds of firefighters continue battling the lightning-caused Widemouth 2 Fire, which began July 27 south of Kanosh. The blaze has grown rapidly during periods of hot, dry and windy weather and had burned approximately 106,450 acres by Friday. More than 630 personnel were assigned to the fire Friday, along with 23 engines, nine bulldozers, nine water tenders and seven helicopters before the crash.

The Aircraft

The Sikorsky S-64, commonly known as a Skycrane, is a heavy-lift helicopter frequently used on wildfires to carry large amounts of water or fire retardant.

The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board are expected to investigate what caused the helicopter to go down.