Helicopter pilot killed in Colorado wildfire crash

A 56‑year‑old helicopter pilot was killed Sunday when his aircraft crashed into Silver Jack Reservoir while fighting wildfires in Colorado, authorities said. The Gunnison County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) posted the news on Facebook, noting the fatal incident occurred at about 5:17 p.m. MDT.

The pilot, Nicholas Dale, was operating a K‑MAX helicopter built by Kaman Aircraft. According to the GCSO, the helicopter went down in the reservoir that lies just east of the town of Gunnison, in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Dale had been on a mission to support ground crews battling the state‑wide blaze that has scorched thousands of acres across the region.

The GCSO has not yet released a formal investigation report, but the crash underscores the dangers faced by aerial firefighting crews in Colorado’s rugged terrain. The incident has prompted a review of operational procedures for aircraft engaged in wildfire suppression missions.