Wildfire pilot killed in Horse Gulch Fire mourned by firefighting community

Firefighting officials have released statements regarding the death of wildland firefighting pilot Juliana Turchetti, who died in a plane crash while fighting the Horse Gulch Fire on Wednesday.

“It is with a heavy heart that I share that Juliana Turchetti, a wildland firefighting pilot, died in a plane crash while supporting fire suppression efforts on the Horse Gulch Fire,” said Helena Lewis and Clark Forest Supervisor Emily Platt. “Our deepest condolences go out to Juliana’s family, friends, colleagues, and the firefighting and aviation communities. I ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this time of sorrow.”

“Our hearts and prayers go out to the family, friends, and colleagues of Juliana. The IDL firefighting and aviation community has been hit hard by this tragedy,” said IDL Director Dustin Miller. “Wildland firefighters, by air and by ground, step up to do this dangerous work to protect our communities and lands. Juliana has given the ultimate sacrifice. Our hearts are heavy and she will not be forgotten.”

A joint release from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Forest Service, and the Idaho Department of Lands said Turchetti was flying a “Fire Boss Air Tractor 802 (AT-802) under contract by the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) on loan to the fire in support of the Forest Service suppression efforts.”

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash with support and cooperation from the Federal Aviation Administration, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators arrived at the scene Wednesday afternoon, and the plane will be cleared and further examined at a different location.