Plane Crash Claims Lives of Firefighter and Companion Near Empire, Nevada
EMPIRE, NV — A plane crash on Sunday, May 17, 2026, resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including a firefighter well-known in the Murphy, Reynolds, Wilson Fire District.
According to the fire district, Ed Dickman, a retired airline pilot and active firefighter, and his companion, Sherry Jones, were returning to Idaho after attending a family event in Nevada. Dickman had previously served as both a fire commissioner and fire chief.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office reported receiving a request at 8:25 a.m. to assist in locating a missing aircraft last spotted near Empire. Search and Rescue personnel, along with Pyramid Lake Fire, located a single-engine private aircraft approximately 7.5 miles southwest of Empire. Two deceased individuals were found inside.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will carry out a formal investigation into the incident. The identities of the deceased will be released by the Washoe County Regional Medical Examiner's Office following notifications to next-of-kin.
A memorial is being planned by the fire district, which encourages the community to send cards and condolences to MRW Fire, 11606 Hwy 78, Melba, ID 83641. The district will ensure the families receive these tributes.