Tahoe National Forest helitak captain dies in Texas crash

A helicopter accident on the Sam Houston National Forest in Texas has killed a helitack captain from the Tahoe National Forest.

Officials with the U.s. Forest Service said Daniel J. Laird, a 23-year agency employee, was joined by two other crew members on a helicopter assisting a routine controlled burn on the forest when the helicopter went down. The two other crew members were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Laird, who lived in Yuba City, is survived by his wife and daughter.

“Our hearts and condolences go out to Daniel, his family, friends, and co-workers,” said Forest Service Chief Vicki Christiansen. “We’re very proud of his service and commitment to the agency and our nation. Tragedies of this nature serve as a reminder of the honorable work and sacrifices made by women and men like Daniel. They daily commit themselves to supporting and protecting communities around the country,” she said.

The incident is currently under investigation.