Gold Mountain Fire – Aircraft Down in Silver Jack Reservoir

Gunnison County Sheriff Adam Murdie reports that at 5:17 p.m. on July 12, 2026, Gunnison Regional Communications Center received a call regarding an aircraft down in the Silver Jack Reservoir in the southwestern portion of Gunnison County. The aircraft has been confirmed to be engaged in firefighting operations with the Gold Mountain Fire.

There was one person on board the aircraft, and following a search by the Montrose County Sheriff’s Office dive team, Sheriff Adam Murdie confirms that the  the body of the pilot has been recovered this evening. The body will be transported to the Gunnison County Coroner’s Office. No further information will be released until the next of kin has been notified. All inquiries should be directed to the Gunnison County Public Information Officer, Nicole Stone, at 970-642-4666 or [email protected].

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The Gold Mountain Fire is at 35,621 acres and 13% containment. The evacuation zones in southwestern Gunnison County remain in the same designation as yesterday:

🟥 Zone 32: remains Mandatory Evacuation

🟨 Zone 33: remains in Voluntary Evacuation

Click here for evacuation information and additional information about the Gold Mountain Fire.