Home / Disasters and Accidents / Wildfire Pilot Dies in Colorado Reservoir Crash
Wildfire Pilot Dies in Colorado Reservoir Crash
13 Jul
Summary
- Pilot assisting Gold Mountain fire crashed into Silver Jack Reservoir.
- Pilot's body recovered Sunday, family notification pending.
- Gold Mountain fire has burned over 35,000 acres and is 13% contained.
A pilot aiding in the fight against the Gold Mountain wildfire tragically perished when their aircraft crashed into Colorado's Silver Jack Reservoir on Sunday. The Gunnison County Sheriff's Office confirmed the recovery of the pilot's body by a dive team late Sunday, with formal family notification pending.
The Gold Mountain fire, active since June 27, has significantly impacted the region, burning over 35,000 acres and achieving only 13% containment as of Monday. Evacuation orders remain in effect for portions of southwestern Gunnison County.
This incident follows a series of deadly wildfires in Colorado. The state governor had previously secured a FEMA grant to bolster wildfire response efforts. Several other major wildfires, including the Ferris, Willow, and Aspen Acres fires, continue to be battled across the state, with some also issuing evacuation orders.
