Arizona authorities said that two firefighters were killed in a tragic plane crash while they investigated the Cedar Basin Fire from the skies Saturday afternoon.
Acting as the crews’ “eyes in the sky”, the firefighters were monitoring the wildfire for teammates working on the grounds.
“The Bureau of Land Management is currently working with other local, state and federal agencies to respond to a fatal aircraft accident associated with the Cedar Basin Fire near Wikieup, Arizona.”
“The accident occurred around noon today and involved an air attack aircraft performing aerial reconnaissance and command and control over the fire.”
The agency added: “Two crew members were on board and we are sad to report there were no survivors. We will provide additional information pending next of kin notification.”
The statement concluded: “Our hearts go out to the families of our brave wildland firefighters.”
The wildfire erupted Friday following lighting strikes near Wikieup, Arizona, and has so far consumed around 300 acres.
