Three men were killed in a midair collision between two Cal Fire helicopters over Cabazon while engaged in firefighting operations, eliciting condolences Monday from the governor and others.
“On behalf of all Californians, our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with the loved ones, friends and Cal Fire colleagues mourning the loss of Assistant Chief (Josh) Bischof, fire Capt. (Tim) Rodriguez and pilot (Tony) Sousa,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said.
“This terrible tragedy is a reminder of the dangers our courageous firefighters face daily while working to keep our communities safe. We owe them our deepest respect and gratitude and will always honor their bravery and sacrifices.”
Riverside County Supervisor Manuel Perez, whose Fourth District encompasses Cabazon, said he was saddened to learn of the loss of “three members of our fire service (who) perished protecting us from fire.”
“It is a horrible tragedy when those who serve the community do not return home to their families,” he said. “I pray for their families and the rest of Riverside County Fire Department.”
The crash happened Sunday evening near Pipeline Road and Apache Trail, according to the sheriff’s department.
“We have lost three great individuals,” Cal Fire Southern Region Chief Dave Fulcher told reporters during an emotional briefing Monday.
The Bell 407 and Sikorsky S-64E collided while conducting operations connected with the “Broadway Fire,” which scorched about 20 acres in the area of Broadway Street and Esperanza Avenue.
The Bell was piloted by a contract aviator, with Bischof and Rodriguez serving in observational capacities, according to Fulcher.
The Skycrane, which was dispatched to the area two months ago for the duration of Southern California Wildfire Season, was making drops over the blaze.
It was not immediately clear why the choppers were not positioned at safer distances or altitudes. Cabazon lies within the San Gorgonio Pass, with arching terrain both north and south, limiting maneuverability.
“Although this was a tragic event, it could have been worse,” Fulcher said, noting that the Sikorsky, occupied by two, landed without incident after the impact.
The crash caused a four-acre fire that was quickly knocked down, Fulcher said.
He said the two helicopters were among a half-dozen aircraft sent to the blaze.
National Transportation Safety Board investigators were expected to initiate a preliminary investigation Monday.