Helitack Crew Lost in Colorado Wildfire | Boise News

Four wildland firefighters died in a Colorado wildfire on June 27th after being trapped by rapidly spreading flames — the deadliest helitack entrapment in over a decade. Smoke blocked helicopter access, and while federal agencies released preliminary reports in July, full findings are still months away. This tragedy follows another fatal helicopter crash in Utah earlier this month. Advocates blame an aggressive federal fire suppression strategy, intensified by record heat and drought, which may have pushed crews into greater danger. The Wildland Fire Service insists its early-response tactics prioritize safety and reduce overall risk, arguing that large fires now pose the biggest threat. As investigations continue, researchers are developing new tools to map safer zones for crews, aiming to prevent future losses in an increasingly perilous fire season. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/23033099f709907b