A pilot involved in battling a fierce wildfire in Colorado was discovered deceased after his firefighting plane crashed into a mountain reservoir late Sunday, according to officials.
The Gunnison County Sheriff, Adam Murdy, stated that a dive team from the Montrose County Sheriff’s Office recovered the pilot’s remains from Silver Jack Reservoir, which will be sent to the Gunnison County Coroner’s Office for identification. Though the pilot’s name has not been disclosed, authorities have informed his family.
The crash was reported around 5:17 p.m. Sunday, following a notification to the Gunnison Regional Communications Center about a plane going down into Silver Jack Reservoir, located in the southwest part of Gunnison County.
Authorities indicate the aircraft was responding to the Gold Mountain Fire, which is still active in southwestern Colorado. Early reports suggest that the pilot was the sole person aboard the aircraft.
Investigators have yet to determine the cause of the crash. The scene saw rapid response from deputies, investigators, and the dive team from Montrose County.
As of Sunday, the Gold Mountain Fire has scorched approximately 35,600 acres, with only 5% containment, per updates from the Interagency Wildfire Air Quality Response Program. Fire officials anticipate ongoing challenges in controlling the fire, with shifting winds expected to alter smoke patterns in the coming days.
Health advisories regarding air quality due to wildfire smoke remain active for various regions in central, southern, and western Colorado.
Authorities stated they would provide more information as soon as they contact the pilot’s family.
