One of Pilots Killed in Chopper Crash at UT Wildfire Identified
One of the pilots killed in a helicopter crash while battling a Utah wildfire has been identified as a Porterville resident.
Miles Elliott and another pilot, who has not been identified, died Friday when their Sikorsky Skycrane helicopter went down while during the Widemouth 2 Fire, abc4 reported late Monday afternoon.
Porterville Mayor Greg Meister wrote in a statement: "Miles traveled across our nation fighting wildland fires, putting the lives and safety of others before his own. It was a life of service and selflessness, and ultimately, he gave his life while protecting others. Miles will be remembered as a hero, and the City of Porterville will honor him as one."
Elliott and his colleague worked for Helicopter Transport Services and were under contract with the U.S. Forest Service.
Wildland officials said due to dangerous fire conditions near the crash site, crews were unable to recover the pilots' bodies until Saturday.
“Miles represented the very best of Porterville. He was a devoted father, pilot, entrepreneur, photographer, mentor, and an incredibly gifted person who used his talents to serve others and give back to the community he called home,” the mayor added.
About the Author
Susan Nicol
News Editor
Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.
