An aircraft crashed in Sevier County on Friday while responding to the Widemouth 2 Fire, a lightning-caused wildfire that has grown to more than 36,000 acres. The incident occurred near Three Creeks Reservoir as firefighting efforts continue to battle the blaze, which has seen significant growth in recent days.
Aircraft Crash During Firefighting
The crash occurred around noon on Friday, August 7, 2026, during maneuvering operations related to firefighting efforts, according to reports from the Aviation Safety Network. The aircraft was operating in the vicinity of Three Creeks Reservoir in Utah when the incident occurred. While the nature of the crash was identified as being related to fire fighting, specific details regarding the aircraft's registration or the status of occupants have not been confirmed by primary sources.
Rapid Fire Growth
The Widemouth 2 Fire, which was ignited by lightning on July 27, 2026, has expanded rapidly, growing more than 30,000 acres in a single 24-hour period according to an InciWeb update from August 3, 2026. The fire is located approximately six miles south of Kanosh, Utah, within the Fillmore District of the Fishlake National Forest. As of August 3, the fire was reported at 36,438 acres with 0% containment.
Dangerous Fire Behavior
Extreme fire behavior along the north flank has driven the blaze beyond Meadow and toward Fillmore. Wind-driven runs have contributed to a rapid rate of spread, with spotting reported along the western edge of the perimeter. The fire is fueled by extremely dry juniper and oak, along with six-foot chaparral and two-foot brush, which has contributed to very active fire behavior.
Emergency Area Closures
The U.S. Forest Service issued an updated closure order for the area to protect public health and safety during the fire and subsequent containment phases. The order, effective from August 4, 2026, at 5:00 P.M., remains in effect until October 31, 2026, unless rescinded by the Forest Service. The closure covers a large area within the Fillmore Ranger District, including specific roads and trails, and prohibits entering or being in the restricted area.
Legal Restrictions and Exemptions
Under the Forest Service order, violations are punishable as a Class B misdemeanor, carrying a fine of up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or imprisonment for up to six months. Exemptions to the order include federal, state, or local officers and members of organized rescue or firefighting forces performing official duties. The Fishlake National Forest Supervisor's Office and the Fillmore Ranger District Office are managing the area's restrictions.
Ongoing Emergency Response
As of early August, firefighting personnel included 373 individuals working to secure lines and provide structure protection for the town of Kanosh. Crews have been utilizing engines and bulldozers to protect structures from the Meadow to Fillmore area. The Sheriff's office has been coordinating evacuations for campers along the east flank using Department of Public Safety helicopters, as well as evacuating homes as needed.
Regional Coordination Efforts
Sevier County emergency response is coordinated through Richfield Communications (911) and the Richfield Interagency Fire Center. The Great Basin Coordination Center, located in Salt Lake City, serves as the central hub for mobilizing resources throughout the region, including intelligence and predictive services for wildland fire management.
