The deaths of two helicopter pilots have been confirmed after a crash in Sevier County. The incident occurred around 10:40 a.m. on Aug. 7 when a Sikorsky Skycrane helicopter crashed while assigned to the Widemouth 2 Fire.
The crash ignited vegetation in the area. According to a press release from the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office, ground resources and Search and Rescue attempted to respond, but access to the scene was compromised by the fire.
Crews entered the area the following day once it was safe. After a search and rescue mission, the pilots were confirmed deceased. The victims were pilots with Helicopter Transport Services, a company operating a Forest Service Exclusive Use contract aircraft.
The cause of the incident is currently under investigation by the NTSB and FAA.
