By Troy Gillard

Evansburg

Helicopter pilot battling wildfire dies in crash

Jun 29, 2021 | 2:08 PM

The pilot of a helicopter helping to battle a wildfire west of Edmonton died Monday night when the chopper crashed.

Evansburg RCMP received a 911 call shortly after 6:30 p.m. that an aircraft involved in firefighting efforts had crashed in a remote area near the community.

They said Mounties, firefighters, EMS and Alberta Wildfire staff are at the scene, which is west of Highway 22 and North of Highway 16.

Transport Canada is investigating the crash, and further details are expected later today.

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Agriculture and Forestry Minister Devin Dreeshen shared his condolences in a statement on Tuesday.

“I learned with great sadness of the death of a pilot, whose helicopter crashed while assisting with a wildfire in the Edson Forest Area on June 28. On behalf of Alberta’s government and all Albertans, I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the pilot who lost his life,” Dreeshen said.

“While we mourn a life lost in the line of duty, Alberta’s brave first responders continue to put themselves in danger every day to protect Alberta families. For that, we thank them.

“I ask Albertans to do all that they can to prevent wildfires so that our first responders can get home safe.”

(With file from The Canadian Press)