08.08.2026 02:10
A firefighting helicopter crashed while responding to a forest fire that has been ongoing for 13 days in the U.S. state of Utah. Because the flames have surrounded the debris field, the crash site cannot be reached, and uncertainty remains regarding the condition of the two crew members on board.
Efforts are racing against time to reach the two-person crew of a firefighting helicopter that crashed while responding to the ongoing "Widemouth 2" fire in Utah's Fishlake National Forest in the USA. More than six hours have passed since the moment of the accident, but active flames in the region and challenging terrain conditions are preventing teams from entering the wreckage area.
FLAMES NOT ALLOWING PASSAGE
Uncertainty continues regarding the health status of the 2 crew members aboard the Sikorsky S-64 heavy-lift helicopter. In a statement from the local Sheriff's Office, it was reported that real-time coordination is being maintained with the Wildfire Incident Management Team to determine when investigators and rescue crews can safely enter the area. Teams are waiting to move into the region once the fire changes direction or is brought under control.
SECOND LARGEST FIRE IN THE STATE
The accident occurred during the Widemouth 2 Fire, which has scorched more than 105,000 acres and destroyed 6 structures. Rescue operations are being carried out with difficulty under the shadow of the flames in this disaster, which is recorded as the second largest fire in Utah. Utah Governor Spencer Cox, drawing attention to the high risk of fighting the wildfire, invited citizens to pray for the crew.
CAUSED BY LIGHTNING STRIKE, COULDN'T BE EXTINGUISHED FOR DAYS
The Widemouth 2 Fire, caused by a lightning strike, started on July 27 and was 19 percent contained as of Friday. Six structures were destroyed as a result of the fire.