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7 August 2026
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End of watch: Two firefighters killed in the line of duty when Sky Crane crashed, Utah, US
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The wildland fire and aviation communities are mourning the devastating loss of Chris Andersen and Miles Elliott, who lost their lives while supporting the Widemouth 2 Fire in Utah. On Friday, 7 August 2026, Chris and Miles were aboard Sikorsky S-64 Sky Crane N793HT, working the Widemouth 2 Fire in Millard and Sevier counties, when their helicopter crashed in steep terrain near Three Creeks Reservoir, tragically taking both of their lives.
These men went to work that day with a mission familiar to everyone who has served in wildland fire: support the firefighters on the ground, protect communities, and help accomplish the mission safely. They did not come home.
This has already been an incredibly difficult fire season and there is still a long road ahead. Losses like this reach far beyond a single crew or organisation. They are felt throughout the entire wildland fire and aviation family.
My deepest thoughts and prayers go out to the families, friends, coworkers, fellow pilots, firefighters and everyone who knew and worked alongside Chris and Miles. May they find strength and comfort in the days ahead.
Rest in peace, Chris and Miles. Your service, sacrifice and dedication to the wildland fire community will never be forgotten.
Aviation safety message
In honour of Chris and Miles, may every aviation mission remind us that no assignment is routine and no objective is more important than bringing everyone home. Maintain situational awareness, communicate concerns, respect changing conditions, manage risk continuously and never hesitate to speak up when something doesn’t look or feel right.
Fly safe. Fight fire safely. Look out for one another. Bring everyone home. ~ Retired Division Chief Will Spyrison
Sources: InciNotes Administrator
These men went to work that day with a mission familiar to everyone who has served in wildland fire: support the firefighters on the ground, protect communities, and help accomplish the mission safely. They did not come home.
This has already been an incredibly difficult fire season and there is still a long road ahead. Losses like this reach far beyond a single crew or organisation. They are felt throughout the entire wildland fire and aviation family.
My deepest thoughts and prayers go out to the families, friends, coworkers, fellow pilots, firefighters and everyone who knew and worked alongside Chris and Miles. May they find strength and comfort in the days ahead.
Rest in peace, Chris and Miles. Your service, sacrifice and dedication to the wildland fire community will never be forgotten.
Aviation safety message
In honour of Chris and Miles, may every aviation mission remind us that no assignment is routine and no objective is more important than bringing everyone home. Maintain situational awareness, communicate concerns, respect changing conditions, manage risk continuously and never hesitate to speak up when something doesn’t look or feel right.
Fly safe. Fight fire safely. Look out for one another. Bring everyone home. ~ Retired Division Chief Will Spyrison
Sources: InciNotes Administrator