Abandoned campfire sparks deadly Yosemite blaze, killing two helicopter pilots
Authorities say an abandoned campfire caused the Dome fire in Yosemite, which led to the crash of two aerial firefighters.
A wildfire dubbed the Dome fire ignited on Sept. 15 around 7 a.m. near Yosemite's southern entrance, about a quarter-mile north of Chilnualna Falls, after an abandoned campfire was left unattended. The fire has grown to 5,585 acres and was 39% contained as of the latest report. The blaze caused a helicopter crash on Sept. 20, killing pilots Ryan Cutter and Greg King as they attempted water drops.
Families described Cutter as calm and adventurous, while King was praised as a top aerial firefighter. Park officials are urging anyone with information about the camper who started the fire to call the National Park Service tip line, noting possible federal prosecution. Most park facilities remain open, though several trails and Glacier Point Road stay closed due to smoke.
Why it matters
A human-caused wildfire in a major national park resulted in loss of life and extensive damage, highlighting fire safety risks.
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