One of Brazil's first female ag pilots dies while fighting fire in Montana

HELENA, Mont. - One of Brazil's first female ag pilots lost her life while fighting an active wildfire near Helena, Montana Wednesday.

Juliana Turchetti was piloting a plane on loan from Idaho to the U.S. Forest Service in order to help fight the Horse Gulch Fire.

AgAir said Turchetti contributed many articles to U.S., Brazilian, and Spanish publications advocating for ag aviation.

The Horse Gulch Fire began on July 9. It was last reported to be around 2,000 acres with no containment.

The Northern Rockies Incident Management Team said the fire was human caused.

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte and Idaho Governor Brad Kittle issued a joint statement about Turchetti's passing.

You can read the full statement below:

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the young female wildland firefighter who tragically lost her life responding to the Horse Gulch fire in Helena, Montana. Our first responders and wildland firefighters put their lives on the line to quickly respond to threats and protect our communities. It’s a true act of bravery to run toward a fire. We join all Montanans and Idahoans in praying for the fallen hero’s family and friends during this tragic time.

We continue to monitor the Horse Gulch fire which was initially managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The Montana Department of Natural Resources has recently deployed resources to support the response.

In the meantime, those living near the fire should listen to local officials, avoid the area, and allow these brave men and women to do their jobs.

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