Pilot Found Dead After Plane Crash in Colorado Wildfire

A pilot who was assisting in combatting a large wildfire in Colorado was discovered dead following a plane crash into a mountain reservoir on Sunday evening. This information was confirmed by local authorities.

The Montrose County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team successfully recovered the pilot’s body from Silver Jack Reservoir, according to a statement by Gunnison County Sheriff Adam Murdie. The body has been transported to the Gunnison County Coroner’s Office for further examination. Officials have withheld the pilot’s identity until family members are informed.

The incident was reported at approximately 5:17 p.m. on Sunday after the Gunnison Regional Communications Center received an alert about an aircraft that had crashed in Silver Jack Reservoir, located in the southwestern region of Gunnison County.

The aircraft was engaged in efforts to contain the Gold Mountain Fire, a blaze affecting southwestern Colorado. Preliminary reports indicated that the pilot was the aircraft’s sole occupant. Currently, investigators have not determined the cause of the crash.

Respondents to the crash site included deputies, investigators, and the Montrose County Sheriff’s Office dive team.

The Gold Mountain Fire has already scorched around 35,600 acres and was only 5% contained as of Sunday. The Interagency Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program noted that the fire is expected to remain active, with shifting winds potentially moving smoke into surrounding communities in the coming days.

An air quality health advisory is in force for wildfire smoke across central, southern, and western Colorado, according to officials.

Further details, including the pilot’s identity, will be disclosed once the next of kin have been informed.