3 killed after midair collision of firefighting helicopters

Three people were killed in a midair collision of firefighting helicopters in Northern California on Monday. The two helicopters, a Sikorsky S-61 and a Bell 212, were fighting a wildfire in the Klamath National Forest when they collided. All three people on board both helicopters were killed.

The cause of the collision is still under investigation. However, officials believe that the helicopters may have collided while trying to avoid a smoke plume from the fire.

The crash is a reminder of the dangers that firefighters face every day. They put their lives on the line to protect our communities, and we are grateful for their service.

Here are some more details about the crash:

• The collision happened at around 11:30 AM on Monday, July 4, 2023.
• The two helicopters were part of a firefighting operation to extinguish a wildfire in the Klamath National Forest.
• The Sikorsky S-61 was carrying a crew of three: a pilot, a co-pilot, and a firefighter. The Bell 212 was carrying a crew of two: a pilot and a firefighter.
• All three people on board both helicopters were killed.
• The cause of the collision is still under investigation. However, officials believe that the helicopters may have collided while trying to avoid a smoke plume from the fire.

This is a tragic accident, and our hearts go out to the families and friends of the victims. We are grateful for the service of these firefighters, and we will never forget their sacrifice.