A Montana DNRC Bell UH-1H returning to its helibase after fighting the Deep Creek Fire suffered a hard landing that resulted in a roll over and fire that later consumed the aircraft. In a moment of sheer coincidence, the aircraft came down next to a road where Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Amanda Villa was parked. According to reports from the scene, Trooper Villa sprang into action immediately, helping all five crew members on board exit the helicopter safely before the post crash fire erupted.
The injured crew members were later evacuated to the Billings Clinic in Townsend and St. Peter’s Health in Townsend and Helena. The crews condition is unknown at this time.
