Summary:
- Two helicopters crash in Riverside County, resulting in the deaths of three individuals, including a Cal Fire division chief, a Cal Fire air captain, and a contracted pilot.
- The crash occurred during firefighting operations against a brush fire, highlighting the risks faced by firefighters.
- Aggressive firefighting response is explained due to the presence of tall grasses, brush, and strong winds in the area.
- A tribute was held to honor the fallen firefighters, with a large flag hoisted from fire ladder trucks and salutes from fellow responders.
- Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the collision between the two helicopters.
Firefighters who put their lives on the line every day are mourning three of their brothers who lost their lives in the line of duty. Two helicopters crashed in Riverside County, and the federal government wants to know why. KKL News reporter Carl Finstrom has the latest developments.
Six Aircraft and Helicopters Deployed for Fire Attack
Six aircraft and helicopters are part of yesterday's fire attack. A spokesperson for Cal Fire explained the need for an aggressive response due to the prevalence of light, flashy fuels and strong winds in the area. The combination of tall grasses and brush, along with the winds, creates a dangerous situation for fires to spread quickly. Firefighting aircraft play a crucial role in stopping fires and protecting homes and lives.Tribute to the Fallen Heroes
The bodies of the three men killed, including a Cal Fire division chief, a Cal Fire air captain, and a contracted pilot, were taken to the Riverside County Coroner's office. A touching tribute was held with a large flag hoisted from fire ladder trucks, surrounded by fire crews and first responders saluting them.Investigation into Crash
Investigators searched through the wreckage of the two helicopters, a bell acting as an observer craft, and a Sikorsky sky crane, which may have been dropping water or retardant. All three men aboard the bell helicopter lost their lives, while the two on the Sikorsky survived. The community is familiar with the risks of wildfires, having experienced tragedy in the past. The NTSB is conducting an investigation into the crash.Continuing Coverage
Stay tuned for more updates from the ongoing investigation. For the latest information on the Cabazon helicopter crash, visit Kcal News and Kcal News website. CBS News, Los Angeles, also provides 24/7 streaming coverage.We will bring you more information as we get it from investigators. Thank you and stay with Kcal News and Kcal News website for the latest on this helicopter crash in Cabazon. We're also streaming 24/7 on CBS News, Los Angeles.