Two people die in aerial firefighting accident in Arizona

The accident occurred at noon on 10 July as part of initial attack efforts on the Cedar Basin Fire, located 14 miles east of Wikieup in northwestern Arizona.

Pilot Matthew Miller, 48, and Air Tactical Group Supervisor Jeff Piechura, 62, were on board a Beechcraft King Air C-90 aircraft, conducting visual reconnaissance and aviation command and control over the fire, when the accident occurred. Miller was a fire pilot with Falcon Executive Aviation, Inc, contracted by the US Forest Service. Piechura was an employee with the Coronado National Forest. Their remains have been recovered from the accident site.

Inherent risks involved in wildland firefighting

“Our hearts and most sincere condolences are with the families, friends and colleagues of both individuals lost in this tragic accident," said BLM Arizona State Director Raymond Suazo. "This reminds us of the inherent risks involved in wildland firefighting and the gratitude we owe to the courageous and committed men and women who serve willingly to protect lives, communities and natural resources.”

The Department of Interior Office of Aviation Services, in conjunction with the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration, are investigating the accident.

The Cedar Basin Fire started the evening of 9 July following lightning and thunderstorms in the area. It is currently mapped at 714 acres with no containment. The accident site is located a half mile south of the fire area and is not threatened by the Cedar Basin Fire.