Cal Fire is currently assisting the National Transportation Safety Board with its investigation into the tragic collision of two helicopters above Cabazon, which took the lives of three individuals. The state firefighting agency is not only involved in the investigation but also wants to gain insight into any potential protocol violations.
The Bell 407 spotter helicopter departed from Hemet-Ryan Air Attack Base at 6:34 p.m. on its way to the Broadway fire, followed by the Sikorsky S-64 “Skycrane” three minutes later. The collision occurred at 6:45 p.m., resulting in the loss of life for the Bell crew, while the Skycrane safely landed with two individuals on board. Both helicopters were contracted by Cal Fire.
At the time of the collision, there were four other firefighting aircraft present, including a spotter airplane. Typically, the spotter aircraft, also known as an “air attack,” arrives first, and every other aircraft must report in for an assignment when they are 7 miles away. The spotter coordinates each aircraft’s position and instructs them when to make their drops. After a drop is made, the spotter will guide the helicopters away and call them back when necessary.
The spotter aircraft flies in a clockwise pattern above other aircraft, allowing for easier monitoring of the counterclockwise-flying water- or retardant-dropping aircraft.
According to FlightAware.com data, the spotter plane was flying at a lower altitude than the Bell moments before the collision, which is still under investigation.
Once the details of the incident are clarified, Cal Fire will take appropriate measures to ensure that any violated rules are enforced or new policies are implemented to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Cal Fire prides itself on its outstanding safety record, with human error being the primary cause of incidents rather than mechanical failures.
The pilot of the spotter airplane witnessed the collision or its aftermath and promptly reported it to the Cal Fire dispatch center in Perris.
Current efforts are primarily focused on planning three funeral services for the individuals who lost their lives in the collision. The deceased include Riverside County Assistant Chief Josh Bischof, Captain Tim Rodriguez, and pilot Tony Allen Sousa, who worked for Air Shasta Rotor & Wing in Redding.
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden expressed their condolences and commended the bravery of the helicopter pilot and California firefighters. They acknowledged the selflessness and courage demonstrated by firefighters who willingly confront danger to protect others.
The Broadway fire was successfully contained to 3 acres, aligning with Cal Fire’s goal of limiting brush fires to 10 acres or less. The swift and intensive response on Sunday was prompted by concerns of potential threats to Cabazon neighborhoods and the nearby steep mountain face leading up to Idyllwild.
In conclusion, while the investigation into the collision continues, Cal Fire remains committed to improving its protocols and ensuring the safety of its personnel in future firefighting operations.
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