Mariposa, CA – On the afternoon of Sunday, September 20, 2026, a helicopter crash during wildfire operations resulted in the death of pilot Greg King, one of two victims, according to KSEE/KGPE.
The Federal Aviation Administration reports that the accident took place around 2:55 PM in Mariposa during firefighting operations on the Dome Fire in Yosemite National Park.
Authorities said a Eurocopter AS32 helicopter crashed while King and a second pilot were engaged in firefighting operations. Both pilots died in the crash. King, employed by Fly Precision, was identified by the Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection, which described him as an experienced wildland firefighter who had served on multiple wildland fires in Alaska.
The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the crash, with the NTSB leading the inquiry. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Fly Precision and the Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection both asked the public and media to extend privacy and compassion to the families of both pilots during this difficult time.
As of Monday afternoon, September 21, the Dome Fire had burned 3,388 acres and was 15 percent contained.
Mariposa County Aircraft Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims
California law follows the principle of comparative negligence, and helicopter crashes occurring during firefighting operations are also subject to federal aviation safety regulations, in addition to any applicable state law claims. Investigators with the FAA and NTSB examine mechanical condition, pilot actions, and environmental factors such as smoke and heat from the fire itself to determine what caused the crash.
Because King was working as a contracted pilot for an aerospace company at the time of the crash, questions about the helicopter’s maintenance history and the company’s own safety protocols for wildfire operations could become significant in any resulting claim. King’s family may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim, which can provide compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of consortium, and other damages related to the fatal accident.
Mariposa County Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, in Mariposa during wildfire operations, contact a California wrongful death lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
