Fatal Helicopter Crash at Ririe Reservoir: Investigation Underway

On Thursday, February 20, 2025, at approximately 4:40 p.m., a tragic helicopter crash occurred on the ice of Ririe Reservoir, located about one mile east of the Ririe Dam in Idaho. The incident resulted in one fatality and one serious injury. Emergency responders from multiple agencies, including the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office, Idaho Falls Fire Department, Jefferson Central Fire Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Idaho Fish and Game, Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue, Bonneville County Fire Ammon Division, and the Bonneville County Coroner’s Office, promptly arrived at the scene. Upon arrival, they discovered two occupants inside the wreckage. One individual was pronounced dead at the scene, while the second occupant sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported via ambulance to a local hospital for treatment. Authorities also discovered a downed power line near the crash site, prompting safety concerns. Deputies have closed Ririe Reservoir and the surrounding area due to downed power lines and unstable ice conditions. The circumstances surrounding why the helicopter was in that area are still being confirmed, and the investigation remains ongoing. citeturn0search0

As of now, the identities of the victims have not been publicly released. The Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office has stated that the investigation is ongoing, and further information will be provided as it becomes available. citeturn0search0

The community has been urged to avoid the area around Ririe Reservoir due to the downed power lines and unstable ice conditions. Authorities are working diligently to determine the cause of the crash and to ensure the safety of the public.

This incident serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with helicopter operations, especially in challenging environments such as frozen bodies of water. The investigation will aim to uncover the factors that led to this tragic event and to implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

For those seeking more information or wishing to express condolences, the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office has provided contact details on their official website. Community members are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to respect the privacy of the victims’ families during this difficult time.

As the investigation continues, authorities are asking anyone with information related to the crash to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office Crime Stoppers program. Public cooperation is vital in ensuring a thorough investigation and in providing support to the victims’ families.

In the coming days, the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office plans to release additional details about the incident, including the identities of the victims and the findings of the preliminary investigation. The community is encouraged to monitor official communications for updates.

This tragic event highlights the importance of safety protocols and the need for continuous training and preparedness among emergency responders and aviation personnel. Lessons learned from this incident will be crucial in enhancing safety measures and preventing future tragedies.

The Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office has expressed gratitude to all the emergency personnel and agencies that responded to the scene, noting their professionalism and dedication in handling the situation. The collaborative efforts of these agencies are commendable and reflect the strong community spirit of the region.

As the investigation progresses, authorities remain committed to providing accurate and timely information to the public. The safety of the community and the well-being of the victims’ families remain the top priorities.

In conclusion, the fatal helicopter crash at Ririe Reservoir is a tragic event that has deeply affected the local community. The ongoing investigation aims to uncover the circumstances surrounding the crash and to implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office continues to work diligently, with the support of various agencies, to ensure a thorough investigation and to provide support to the victims’ families during this challenging time.

For further information and updates, please refer to the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office official website and trusted news sources.