Firefighting plane crashes into Colorado reservoir, body recovered

A firefighting aircraft crashed into Silver Jack Reservoir in western Colorado on Sunday, leading to the recovery of one body. The incident occurred at 5:17 p.m. as the aircraft was engaged in efforts to combat the Gold Mountain Fire.

The Gunnison County Sheriff's Office stated that dive teams were dispatched to the reservoir. While the specific type of aircraft, whether a plane or helicopter, was not immediately disclosed, the sheriff's office later confirmed that a body was recovered from the wreckage. The identity of the deceased will not be released until next of kin are notified.

The Gold Mountain Fire, which ignited late last month, has proven challenging to contain, with only 5% of the burn area under control. The fire has scorched more than 35,601 acres in Gunnison County. Mandatory evacuations remain in effect for some areas east and northeast of the city of Ouray, though the city itself is not under evacuation orders. The cause of the Gold Mountain Fire is currently under investigation.