Helicopter Accident on Elk Complex Fires, Happy Ca
Incident: Elk Complex Wildland Fire
Released: 7/24/2007
KLAMATH NF - UPDATE FOR JULY 24TH, 2007
HELICOPTER ACCIDENT ON ELK COMPLEX FIRES, HAPPY CAMP, CA
(YREKA, CA)- The victim of yesterday's helicopter crash has been identified as Dennis Luster Davis, 61, of Boise, ID. Davis was a pilot for Idaho Helicopters, Inc., also of Boise, ID, and flew a Bell 205, type 2 helicopter, tail number 205BR. Davis' helicopter crashed at 10:15 am as he was providing logistical support to crews fighting the Elk Fire. The Elk fire is one of 30 fires within the Elk Complex; 24 of the 30 fires are 100% contained.
At 12 p.m. yesterday, aviation operations were suspended on the Elk Complex. Suspending air operations is routine following aviation accidents. Aviation resources resumed regular operations this morning.
A USDA Forest Service National Accident Investigation Team under the leadership of Jim Sedell arrived today, and has initiated their investigation.
Additional information may be obtained online at http://www.inciweb.org/ or http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/klamath or by calling (530) 841-4451.
- # -
