Summary:
- Three people killed, including two firefighters, in a helicopter collision during firefighting operations in Southern California.
- The collision occurred while the helicopters were responding to a wildfire dispatch in Riverside County.
- The impact of the collision caused an additional four-acre fire.
- The individuals in the first helicopter were able to land safely without incident.
- The helicopter involved in the collision was contracted by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
- The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause of the collision.
Three people, including two firefighters, were killed when two helicopters collided in Southern California. They were fighting a blaze in Riverside County that had stretched to surrounding vegetation, prompting a wildfire dispatch. While fighting the fire, the two helicopters collided, causing an additional four-acre fire. Although this was a tragic event, we are also thankful today that it wasn't worse. The individuals in the first helicopter were able to land safely without incident and no one else was hurt. The helicopter was contracted by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. The crash is now under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board.
Firefighting helicopters collide during wildfire response
Three people, including two firefighters, were killed in a tragic incident when two firefighting helicopters collided in Southern California. The accident occurred while they were battling a wildfire that had spread in Riverside County and posed a threat to the surrounding vegetation, leading to a wildfire dispatch.Collision leads to a secondary fire
The impact of the collision between the helicopters resulted in an additional four-acre fire. Firefighting teams promptly responded to the new fire and managed to contain it before it could escalate further.Safe landing for one helicopter
Despite the devastating collision, there was a silver lining as the individuals aboard the first helicopter managed to make a safe landing without any further incidents. This quick action helped prevent more casualties and injuries.Contracted helicopter and investigation
The helicopter involved in the collision was under contract with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. In the wake of this tragedy, the National Transportation Safety Board has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the collision and any contributing factors.This unfortunate incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks and challenges that firefighting teams face while battling wildfires. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this accident. As the investigation unfolds, authorities and firefighting agencies will likely implement additional safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.