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Colorado Flags Half-Staff After Pilot Killed Fighting Fire

7/14/2026

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Polis Lowers Flags

Colorado Governor Jared Polis ordered state flags lowered to half-staff immediately in tribute to the fallen pilot.
Authorities confirmed that a Kaman Aerospace K-1200 helicopter crashed into Silver Jack Reservoir in Gunnison County, killing pilot Nicholas Dale.
The 56-year-old Canadian pilot was the sole occupant fighting the 57-square-mile Gold Mountain Fire.
Helicopter Express confirmed Dale’s death, praised his dedication, and said the NTSB will investigate.

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Polis Honors Pilot

Colorado faces multiple massive wildfires this summer, scorching tens of thousands of acres across the state.
Governor Jared Polis ordered flags lowered to half-staff after a firefighting pilot died in a crash into Silver Jack reservoir.
Polis secured a FEMA fire-management assistance grant for Gold Mountain fire and praised firefighters’ bravery.
Gunnison County sheriff’s office verified the pilot was alone while Montrose divers retrieved his body.

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Polis Lowers Flags

Colorado Governor Jared Polis ordered state flags lowered to half-staff immediately in tribute to the fallen pilot.
Authorities confirmed that a Kaman Aerospace K-1200 helicopter crashed into Silver Jack Reservoir in Gunnison County, killing pilot Nicholas Dale.
The 56-year-old Canadian pilot was the sole occupant fighting the 57-square-mile Gold Mountain Fire.
Helicopter Express confirmed Dale’s death, praised his dedication, and said the NTSB will investigate.

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