Police in southwestern Colorado say a man from British Columbia died after the helicopter he was piloting crashed Sunday while battling a wildfire.
Adam Murdie with Colorado's Gunnison County Sheriff's Office says the body of 56-year-old Nicholas Dale was pulled from his helicopter that went down in the Silver Jack Reservoir, in a remote area southwest of Aspen.
Murdie said Dale, who was from the southern Vancouver Island community of Sooke, had been helping with the Gold Mountain Fire, which has grown to about 148 square kilometres in size.
The fire was 11 per cent contained as of Monday.
"The Gunnison Sheriff's Office offers its deepest condolences to Mr. Dale's family, friends and fellow wildfire-fighting personnel during this incredibly difficult time," Murdie said in a news release.
Murdie added federal investigators are leading the probe into what happened. The Federal Aviation Administration said the aircraft was a Kaman Aerospace K-1200 helicopter that “crashed under unknown circumstances, becoming inverted,” according to its preliminary report.
Photos shared Monday by the Grand Junction Police Department show first responders taking part in a procession of emergency vehicles honouring a "fallen fire hero."
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis said on social media that he is grateful to all those protecting Coloradans from wildfires.
He ordered state flags fly at half-mast once Dale's memorial service is scheduled.
"My heart is with Nicholas’ family, friends, colleagues and all who are mourning this tremendous loss," Polis said in a statement.
Federal registration data shows Dale's helicopter was owned by Georgia-based Helicopter Express. The company has a fleet of helicopters primarily used for firefighting, heavy lifting and construction projects.
Helicopter Express said on social media that Dale, who is said to have been the only person on board the aircraft, leaves behind a wife and two children.
"This is a heartbreaking loss for everyone at Helicopter Express and throughout the aerial firefighting community," the statement said. "Nick’s dedication, professionalism, and commitment to protecting others will never be forgotten."
Many large fires are burning across Western states like Colorado, Utah and New Mexico, while there are also wildfires burning in eight other states — from Alaska to Arizona.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 13, 2026.
Picture Courtesy: Michael Seamans/The Gazette via AP
