Orr (trfnews.i234.me) — Authorities are asking for help after a Minnesota DNR fire suppression aircraft was hit by a bullet Friday evening.
The aircraft had been helping fight a wildland fire north of Orr. It later returned to Hibbing Airport, where damage was found.
According to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office, the aircraft appeared to have been struck after scooping water from Kjostad Lake around 7 p.m.
Fire Reported North Of Orr
Deputies and firefighting crews were called around 4 p.m. Friday to Portage Township. The area is about 15 miles north of Orr.
Several local, state, and federal fire crews responded to the scene. Two single-engine Air Tractor aircraft also helped fight the fire.
The aircraft were operating under contract with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
Ground crews and air crews worked the fire for several hours.
Image related to the investigation.
Pilot Not Hurt
After the aircraft landed at Hibbing Airport, crews found what appeared to be bullet damage.
The aircraft landed safely. The pilot was not injured.
The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office said the case remains under investigation.
Public Asked To Help
Anyone with information is asked to call 911. Tipsters may remain anonymous.
Callers should reference case number 26066433.
Authorities have not said who may have fired the shot. No arrests have been reported.
The incident comes during a busy wildfire response period across northern Minnesota. Fire aircraft often scoop water from lakes to help slow flames in remote areas.
Officials are urging the public to use caution near active fire zones. They also ask people to report any unsafe or suspicious activity.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
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