Firefighter pilot killed in Utah crash remembered for 'a life of service and selflessness'

RICHFIELD — One of two pilots killed in a helicopter crash on Friday while battling a massive wildfire in central Utah was a California resident who traveled across the country for the job.

Miles Elliott, from Porterville, California, was killed in the crash, Porterville officials said on Monday.

"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," Porterville Mayor Greg Meister said in a statement. "Miles will be remembered as a hero, and the city of Porterville will honor him as one."

Elliott was helping pilot a Sikorsky S-64 Skycrane assigned to the Widemouth 2 Fire when it crashed under unknown circumstances shortly after 10:30 a.m. on Friday. The helicopter crashed into a steep area near Three Creeks Reservoir southwest of Richfield, igniting vegetation in the area.

The site was eventually overtaken by the wildfire, while difficult terrain also complicated efforts to reach the wreckage. Sevier County search and rescue teams were eventually able to reach the site Saturday afternoon, confirming that both people on board had died.

Utah fire officials have not yet released the identification of either pilot aboard the helicopter, which had been contracted by the U.S. Forest Service.

"They put themselves in harm's way to protect our state and gave their lives in that service. Abby and I are heartbroken," Gov. Spencer Cox said on Saturday. "Our prayers are with their families and the entire wildland fire community. Utah will never forget their courage, their service, and their sacrifice."

Elliott had "deep roots" in Porterville, a community located about 50 miles north of Bakersfield, Porterville officials said. He graduated from Porterville High School, served on committees and boards overseeing Porterville's airport and Little League operations.

He is also survived by his fiancée, Briana, and their son, Truxton, as well as many other relatives.

"Miles was the kind of friend who would do anything for you, without hesitation or expectation," said Russell Isom, Porterville's transportation director. "But nothing meant more to him than Briana and Truxton. The Porterville Airport community lost one of its own, and I lost a good friend. We are going to miss him."

It's still unclear what caused the crash, which remains under investigation.

The National Transportation Safety Board and Federal Aviation Administration are working with firefighters to access the site to begin the investigation process, Utah fire officials said on Monday.

The Widemouth 2 Fire has now burned over 121,000 acres since it started by lightning on July 27, making it Utah's largest fire this year. Close to 800 personnel have been assigned on it this week.

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