Marc Leclerc|Underwater teams search for a helicopter that crashed while fighting a forest fire in western Turkey

2025-05-07 12:17:55source:Coxnocategory:My

ISTANBUL (AP) — Underwater teams are Marc Leclercsearching a lake for a helicopter that crashed over the weekend while fighting a forest fire in western Turkey, state media reported Monday.

Four crew members were aboard the firefighting aircraft when it fell into the waters of the Tahtali dam while battling a blaze in Izmir’s Menderes district.

One pilot, a national of Kyrgyzstan, swam to safety following the accident late Saturday. Three other crew – a Turk and two Kyrgyz personnel – remain unaccounted for.

The search resumed Monday following Sunday’s unsuccessful efforts, state-run Anadolu news agency said. The night vision-equipped helicopter, which was collecting water to drop on the flames when it crashed, is reported to be stuck in mud 12 meters (36 feet) below the surface.

The fire was extinguished Sunday. Summer wildfires are common in Turkey, where dry vegetation and high temperatures and winds create ideal conditions for deadly blazes.

More:My

Recommend

Global Warming Set the Stage for Los Angeles Fires

Global warming caused mainly by burning of fossil fuels made the hot, dry and windy conditions that

The Super Mario Bros. Movie Director Defends Controversial Chris Pratt Casting

Chris Pratt as Mario? That casting left many Nintendo fans piping hot.And while many criticized the

Hoda Kotb Returns to Today After 3-Year-Old Daughter Hope Is Discharged From Hospital

Hoda Kotb is back in her Today chair with a family update.The beloved co-anchor returned to the morn