Summary:
- The incident occurred during a firefight near the intersection of Broadway Street and Toronto Avenue in Cabazon.
- Two helicopters collided during the firefight, resulting in the death of three individuals, including a Cal Fire division chief, a Cal Fire captain, and a contract pilot.
- An additional four-acre fire was caused by the crash, which was later extinguished.
Tragically, I'm here to talk about an incident that occurred yesterday afternoon at approximately 6.03 in the evening. Cal Fire and Riverside County Fire Department resources were dispatched to a reported structure fire near the intersection of Broadway Street and Toronto Avenue in the community of Cabazon. Shortly after the arrival of the first engine company, it was reported that the fire had extended into the vegetation and a full wildland fire dispatch was initiated, which included fixed wing and rotor wing aircraft. While engaged in the firefight, two helicopters collided. The first helicopter was able to land safely nearby. Unfortunately, the second helicopter crashed and tragically all three members perished, which included one Cal Fire division chief, one Cal Fire captain, and one contract pilot.
Summary points:
- The incident occurred during a firefight near the intersection of Broadway Street and Toronto Avenue in Cabazon.
- Two helicopters collided during the firefight, resulting in the death of three individuals, including a Cal Fire division chief, a Cal Fire captain, and a contract pilot.
- An additional four-acre fire was caused by the crash, which was later extinguished.
The authorities are investigating the cause of the collision and expressing their condolences to the families of the deceased.