YOSEMITE – Cal Fire officials today released the identity of the pilot killed in yesterday’s airtanker crash in Yosemite National Park.
Geoffrey “Craig” Hunt, 62, of San Jose was a 13-year veteran pilot with Dyncorp International under contract with Cal Fire.
“We continue to mourn the tragic loss of Craig,” said Chief Ken Pimlott, Cal Fire director. “We know wildland firefighting is an inherently dangerous job, but Craig made the ultimate sacrifice.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Craig’s family during this difficult time,” said Jeff Cavarra, program director for DynCorp International.
The transport of the body of Craig Hunt was conducted under ceremonial escort this morning.
“The most important thing is to pay respect to this individual who died doing his public service here in Yosemite National Park,” said Superintendent Don Neubacher at a press conference this morning.
“This pilot died serving the state and protecting the lives and property of those in and around the community of Foresta,” said Cal Fire Chief Ken Pimlott. “We will be forever grateful.”
Hunt lost his life when his S-2T Airtanker crashed on Tuesday, Oct. 7, while fighting the Dog Rock Fire in Yosemite National Park.
Today the National Transportation Safety Board has assumed command of the investigation and Cal Fire continues to support them.
