The body of a pilot involved in battling a raging Colorado wildfire was recovered from a mountain reservoir after a devastating aircraft crash on Sunday evening. Authorities confirmed that the pilot was found dead in Silver Jack Reservoir following the crash.
The Montrose County Sheriff's Office Dive Team was involved in the recovery efforts, with the body to be taken to the Gunnison County Coroner's Office for further examination. The pilot's identity has not been released as authorities work to notify family members.
The crash occurred at approximately 5:17 p.m. on Sunday, after a call was received about an aircraft going down in the southwestern corner of Gunnison County. The aircraft was assigned to the Gold Mountain Fire, which has been burning in southwestern Colorado.
Early information suggests that the pilot was the only person on board the aircraft. Investigators have not yet determined the cause of the crash, but a thorough investigation is underway. Deputies, investigators, and the Montrose County Sheriff's Office dive team responded to the scene.
The Gold Mountain Fire has burned over 35,600 acres and was 5% contained as of Sunday. Fire officials expect the blaze to remain active, with shifting winds likely to push smoke into different communities over the next several days. An air quality health advisory for wildfire smoke remains in effect across parts of central, southern, and western Colorado.
Autorities have stated that they will release additional information after the pilot's next of kin has been notified.
