Overview
- A military aircraft crashed near Rimrock Lake and the pilot successfully ejected before the wreckage; the pilot was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, according to the Naches Fire Department.
- The crash ignited a wildfire that prompted an immediate multiagency response with air support continuing into the evening and at least one U.S. Forest Service engine crew on the ground.
- Campers were evacuated from the Rimrock Lake area and the 1200 Road system on the lake’s south side was closed to protect the public and allow emergency access.
- Fire crews prioritized protecting structures, reporting Bear Creek Cabins secured, and said teams would likely return to the scene the next day to mop up and guard against reignition.
- Officials have not released verified figures for burned area or confirmed the type or identity of the military aircraft, and an interagency investigation and burn-area assessment are expected.