Abandoned campfire sparks Yosemite blaze that kills two firefighting pilots
Authorities say an abandoned campfire caused the Dome fire in Yosemite, which led to a helicopter crash that killed two pilots.
A wildfire dubbed the Dome fire ignited on Sept. 15 near Yosemite's southern entrance after an abandoned campfire was left unattended, officials said. The fire has consumed more than 5,585 acres and is 39% contained, according to the federal incident page. Investigators have asked the public to call a tip line to identify the camper who started the blaze, noting possible federal charges.
While battling the fire, a helicopter conducting water drops crashed on Sept. 20, resulting in the deaths of pilots Ryan Cutter and Greg King. Family members described Cutter as calm and adventurous, while King was praised as a top aerial firefighter. Yosemite National Park continues operations, but Glacier Point Road, the Four Mile Trail, Panorama Trail, Chilnualna Falls trail, and the Ostrander Trail remain closed because of smoke and fire activity.
