Pine Fire Update: Wildfire spreads after military plane crashes near Rimrock Lake; pilot ejects safely
A military plane crashes near Rimrock Lake washington state The wildfire started Saturday afternoon. The firefighting operation included at least one engine and helicopter from the U.S. Forest Service Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Como News reported.
Authorities said the pilot successfully ejected before the crash and was taken to a hospital. The incident remains under investigation and emergency crews are working to contain the fire caused by the aircraft.
Located within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest about 35 miles west of Yakima County, Rimrock Lake is a popular destination for camping, boating and outdoor recreation.
Read more: Are Jordanian lobster farms on fire? Massive fire breaks out in Island Park, New York
After the accident, firefighters responded quickly
The Natchez Fire Department reported the plane crashed north of Rimrock Lake, a popular recreation area in Yakima County within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
Firefighters responded quickly after the crash sparked a wildfire in the surrounding vegetation on the south side of the lake.
According to the latest news shared on X by fire tracking account Daniel Fire Truck, the wildfire caused by the accident has spread to approximately two acres and is being managed as a “Pine Fire.”
“The fire caused by the fighter jet crash is now 2 acres in size and is being called a #PineTreeFire aerial attack with Copter 2 just leaving the area.”
However, HT.com cannot independently verify this information.
Evacuation sequence and areas to avoid
According to Naches fire officials, the 1200 Rd system on the south side of Rimrock is closed and numerous law enforcement agencies are currently evacuating campers from the area.
Firefighters warned people to avoid the southeastern area of ​​Mount Rainier National Park.
According to a statement from Natchez fire crews, they completed securing structures near Bear Creek Lodge before leaving the area. “Our supply vessel will remain on scene throughout the afternoon and may return (Sunday) morning to support firefighting operations,” the statement read.
pilot in hospital
The Natchez Fire Department said the pilot ejected before impact and survived the incident. First responders transported the pilot to a hospital for evaluation and treatment.
Officials have not publicly identified the pilot or provided details about the extent of his injuries.
“The cause of the accident is currently under investigation. To maintain the integrity of the investigation, additional details cannot be provided at this time. The accident investigation may take several months to complete, depending on various factors,” the Marine Corps said in a statement.
