2 dead after helicopter fighting Dome Fire crashes, officials say

(Republished from KCRA in Sacramento)

Two Fly Precision crew members died after their helicopter crashed while fighting the Dome Fire in Yosemite, officials said Monday.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the Eurocopter AS32 crashed around 2:55 p.m. Sunday during firefighter operations. Two people were on board.

“It is with unimaginable sadness and broken hearts that we share the loss of two beloved members of our team,” Fly Precision said in a social media post. “We are devastated by this loss and are struggling to find the words. We ask for privacy and compassion for their families and our team as we grieve this tremendous loss. Please keep their families, loved ones, and our entire team in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”

The Dome Fire has burned at least 3,047 acres as of 9:18 p.m. Sunday. The number of reported acres burned has slowed recently, with the last update being 3,016 acres at 1:47 p.m. Sunday.

Cal Fire said the fire is reaching areas previously burned by other fires, including the 2017 Empire Fire.

“With less vegetation available to burn in these areas, fire behavior has been reduced to creeping and smoldering,” Cal Fire said.

Winds, however, are still carrying embers ahead of the main portion of the fire, resulting in spot fires to the north.