PUEBLO COUNTY, Colorado – Colorado officials have identified an individual responsible for flying an unauthorized drone over the Aspen Acres Fire, a dangerous incident that temporarily grounded aerial firefighting operations as crews continue battling one of the state’s largest active wildfires.
According to the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office, the drone was flown over the fire area near Rye despite a Temporary Flight Restriction that prohibits all unauthorized aircraft from entering the airspace. Investigators said the individual also posted video of the illegal flight on social media.
The sheriff’s office announced it will work with federal authorities to pursue federal charges. Flying an unmanned aircraft system inside restricted airspace over an active wildfire is a federal offense because it can force firefighting aircraft to stop operating until the airspace is confirmed to be clear.
This is not the first time officials in Colorado have reminded the public to keep drones away from wildfires this fire season. If you fly, firefighters can’t.
Air Support Remains Critical On The Aspen Acres Fire
The timing of the unauthorized drone flight is especially concerning because aircraft continue to play an important role in containing the Aspen Acres Fire, which has burned 100,756 acres across Pueblo and Custer counties since it was first reported on June 29th. The human caused fire remains under investigation and was listed at 61 percent containment as of July 20th.
More than 1,300 personnel are assigned to the incident, with firefighters continuing to strengthen containment lines while helicopters and fixed wing aircraft deliver water to active hotspots. Aircraft have been supporting crews above Rye and across the southwest portion of the fire where difficult terrain and persistent heat continue to challenge suppression efforts.
Fire managers are also using authorized unmanned aircraft systems to provide infrared mapping and reconnaissance that helps crews locate hotspots and evaluate fire behavior. Unauthorized drones interfere directly with those operations and can remove one of the most valuable tools available to firefighters.
Hot Weather Continues To Challenge Firefighters
Fire activity remains a concern as hot temperatures, low humidity, and gusty easterly winds create conditions that could increase fire behavior across the incident.
Firefighters spent Sunday limiting fire growth near Lake Isabel and Little Saint Charles Creek while expanding and reinforcing containment lines along the western and southwestern edges of the fire. Ground crews, heavy equipment, and aviation resources continue working together to strengthen defenses while night shift personnel patrol control lines and respond to any flare ups.
Officials are also conducting suppression repair work, fence repairs, and landscape stabilization in areas where fire activity has diminished.
Public Asked To Stay Clear Of Fire Area
The Temporary Flight Restriction remains in effect over the Aspen Acres Fire, meaning drones and all unauthorized aircraft are prohibited from entering the airspace.
Officials are also asking the public to stay out of active fire areas so firefighters and heavy equipment operators can work safely without additional hazards. National Forest lands within the closure area remain closed and evacuation orders continue in portions of Pueblo, Custer, and Huerfano counties, although some residents have been allowed to return home under pre evacuation status.
Capturing dramatic drone footage of an active wildfire is never worth risking the aircraft and crews working to protect lives, homes, and communities.