A Sikorsky CH-54A Tarhe firefighting helicopter crashed near Three Creeks Reservoir on Friday, August 7, 2026, killing both pilots on board during a mission to combat the Widemouth 2 Fire. The aircraft, operated by Helicopter Transport Services, was destroyed in the accident, which occurred while the crew was maneuvering near Beaver, Utah.
Details of the Aviation Accident
The crash occurred around 11:00 local time while the crew was engaged in firefighting operations. According to the Aviation Safety Network, the aircraft, registration N793HT, was performing maneuvering tasks when it crashed. The helicopter was flying a route that originated from and was destined for the Richfield Municipal Airport in Utah.
Initial reports from the Aviation Safety Network indicate that the two occupants of the aircraft were killed in the incident. The crash resulted in the total destruction of the Sikorsky aircraft, a model manufactured in 1967. The identity of the helicopter and the fatalities were confirmed through an FAA email and online reports.
Governor Responds to Tragedy
Governor Utah Governor Brad Cox addressed the incident on Friday, noting that personnel were already responding to the aviation emergency near the Widemouth 2 Fire. In a statement released on X, the Governor described wildland firefighting as one of the most dangerous professions in the world.
Cox characterized the event as a painful reminder of the extraordinary risks taken by firefighting crews to protect the public. The Governor requested that Utahns keep the crew members in their prayers and urged the public to allow investigators and emergency responders the necessary time and space to conduct their work.
Investigation Launched by NTSB
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. The NTSB will be responsible for determining the cause of the accident involving the Sikorsky S64/CH-54A helicopter.
While the specific cause of the crash remains under investigation, the incident occurred during active firefighting efforts. The aviation accident involved a Sikorsky CH-54A Tarhe, a heavy-lift helicopter, which was operating under the ownership and operation of Helicopter Transport Services.
Ongoing Response Efforts
The accident occurred in the vicinity of Three Creeks Reservoir, located near Beaver, Utah. The area has been the site of ongoing firefighting efforts related to the Widemouth 2 Fire, which prompted the deployment of the aviation unit.
As of Friday, investigators continue to work at the site. Further information regarding the specific cause of the crash or the identities of the crew members has not been released by official agencies.
