A Sikorsky S-64 firefighting helicopter crashed near Richfield at about 10 a.m. Friday while responding to the Widemouth 2 Fire. Two people were aboard; there is no immediate word on their condition. The Widemouth 2 Fire, burning since July 27, has scorched more than 100,000 acres in Fishlake National Forest and is around 19% contained. Access to the crash site is currently blocked by fire conditions, and the NTSB has launched an investigation.
Firefighting Helicopter Crashes Near Richfield While Battling Widemouth 2 Wildfire
Brian Curtis, deputy managing director for investigations, speaks at a hearing at the National Transportation Safety Board, which is investigating a helicopter that crashed while responding to a wildfire in Utah. File Photo by Alex Wong/UPI
A Sikorsky S-64 firefighting helicopter carrying two people crashed Friday morning near Richfield while responding to the Widemouth 2 wildfire in central Utah, officials said. The aircraft went down at about 10 a.m.; there was no immediate update on the condition of the two firefighters on board.
Incident Response and Statements
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox posted on X that "personnel are responding to an incident regarding firefighting aviation near the Widemouth 2 Fire," adding that "wildland firefighting is among the most dangerous jobs in the world" and calling the crash a painful reminder of the risks firefighters accept to protect communities.
The U.S. Forest Service described the situation as "emerging" and said emergency personnel are on scene, promising to release additional information "as soon as it is available."
Access and Investigation
The Sevier County Sheriff’s Office said fire conditions currently prevent responders from safely accessing the crash site. In a Facebook statement, the office said it is coordinating with the fire incident command to determine when it will be safe to enter and that the event is an ongoing investigation.
The National Transportation Safety Board has opened an investigation into the crash.
Wildfire Context
The Widemouth 2 Fire has burned since July 27 and has consumed more than 100,000 acres, spreading across a large portion of Fishlake National Forest. Authorities reported the fire was about 19% contained as of Friday.
Note: Details remain limited while emergency crews continue response operations. Officials say they will provide updates as soon as reliable information is available.
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