All,
CENTRAL UTAH:
Two Firefighting Pilots died the Line of Duty when a Skycrane helicopter crashed shortly after departing on an aerial firefighting mission, resulting in a catastrophic post-impact fire, according to a press release posted on InciNotes.*
The U.S. Forest Service Exclusive Use Skycrane helicopter was part of fire suppression of the Widemouth 2 Fire six miles south of Kanosh on the Fillmore District of the Fishlake National Forest. The Flight Radar 24 app indicated the helicopter departed from the Richfield Airport and was airborne for approximately two minutes before crashing.
A 47-year-old Firefighter was killed in the Line of Duty during firefighting operations on the Wrights Spring Fire in southern Oregon.
Jason Ensign was operating a D-6 dozer in the area of Yahwee Plateau on Aug. 6, where firefighters and equipment operators were building lines and improving access ahead of the advancing fire.
During those operations, the fire experienced unexpected and rapid growth associated with a weather event, resulting in extreme fire behavior, and rapidly changing conditions cut Firefighter Ensigns dozer off from his escape route to a safety zone.
The fire ignited on Aug. 5, spread rapidly, and by Aug. 7 reached 8,000 acres near Chiloquin.
At approximately 1630 after fire conditions diminished, crews became aware that a dozer was missing and began searching the area.
Searchers eventually located the extensively damaged Caterpillar D-6 dozer late that night, with Firefighter Ensign deceased inside the enclosed cab.
Our condolences to everyone affected. Rest in peace.
Take Care. Be Careful. Pass It On.
Billy
The Secret List 8/8/2026-0800 Hours
www.FireFighterCloseCalls.com
