July 24, 2007

YREKA, CA – The victim of yesterday’s helicopter crash has been identifiedas Dennis Luster Davis, 61, of Boise, ID.  Davis was a pilot for Idaho Helicopters, Inc., also of Boise, ID, and flew a Bell 205, type 2 helicopter, tail number 205BR. Davis’ helicopter crashed at 10:15 am as he was providing logistical support to crews fighting the Elk Fire. The Elkfire is one of 30 fires within the Elk Complex; 24 of the 30 fires are 100% contained.

At 12 p.m. yesterday, aviation operations were suspended on the Elk Complex.  Suspending air operations is routine following aviation accidents.  Aviation resources resumed regular operations this morning.

A USDA Forest Service National Accident Investigation Team under the leadership of Jim Sedell arrived today, and has initiated their investigation.

Additional information may be obtained online at http://www.inciweb.org or http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/klamath or by calling (530) 841-4451.