A HME Inc. 34D Wildland Type III engine arrived in late August to help fight fires in rural Tracy. An aerial ladder truck is under construction, and a new hazardous materials engine destined for Tracy, sponsored by the California Office of Emergency Services, is also coming soon.

The report says the pilot was in a descending flight profile about 100 feet above trees at about 40 knots when the helicopter began an uncommanded yaw to the right and descent increased.

The pilot released the water and the helicopter continued to yaw and descend. The pilot reported he had little positive control before hitting the trees. The yaw decreased and the pilot regained control, then made an emergency landing.