Reach Air confirmed that Millward and paramedic Margaret “Dede” Davis are recovering.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A retired California Highway Patrol officer known for his heroism during one of California’s deadliest wildfires is now recovering from serious injuries after a medical helicopter crash in Sacramento.
Pilot Chad Millward, who spent nearly three decades with the CHP, was flying a Reach Air Medical helicopter when it went down Monday along Highway 50.
The CHP said Millward’s career was defined by courage and selflessness. In 2017, he rescued 41 people trapped by the Atlas Fire in Napa County, including a woman eight months pregnant, and received the Governor’s Public Safety Medal of Valor for his actions.
“During his nearly 28-year distinguished career with the CHP, Officer Millward demonstrated courage and selflessness, earning the Governor’s Public Safety Medal of Valor for his heroic life-saving actions during the 2017 Atlas Fire. His service and commitment to protecting others serve as a testament to the highest ideals of this Department,” the CHP said in a statement.
In a 2018 interview with ABC10’s sister station KRCR, Millward recalled that night.
“Most of the people were trapped on the Atlas Peak. And they couldn’t get out,” he said. “One person that really stands out is a lady who was 8 months pregnant, and we were able to get her out. We have since learned that she has delivered a healthy baby.”
Millward said receiving the award was an honor, but not the reason he served.
“We are grateful that we received the award and that is a nice honor, but that’s not why we do the job,” he said.
Now, the man who spent his career saving others is among those being cared for himself.
Reach Air confirmed that Millward and paramedic Margaret “Dede” Davis are recovering, while flight nurse Susan “Suzie” Smith remains in critical and unstable condition.
“She’s been a cornerstone of this community, always helping others,” said Shasta County Supervisor Corkey Harmon, who has known Smith’s family for decades. “Now, she’s the one in need of help. It’s heartbreaking for all of us, but we’re holding on to hope.”
Bystanders rushed from their cars to lift the helicopter off Smith and pull her from the wreckage.
“I can’t even begin to imagine what the first responders felt, seeing one of their own in such a dire situation,” Harmon said. “But they acted quickly, and it made all the difference in saving lives.”
The Smith family continues to ask for prayers. A candlelight vigil will be held 7 p.m. Thursday at Shasta Regional Medical Center to honor Suzie, Dede, and Chad as they recover.
Full statement from California Highway Patrol:
“The California Highway Patrol extends its deepest concern and sympathy to retired CHP Officer and pilot Chad Millward, as well as to all those involved in the recent helicopter crash on Highway 50 in Sacramento.
During his nearly 28-year distinguished career with the CHP, Officer Millward demonstrated courage and selflessness, earning the Governor’s Public Safety Medal of Valor for his heroic life-saving actions during the 2017 Atlas Fire. His service and commitment to protecting others serve as a testament to the highest ideals of this Department.
We are profoundly grateful to the first responders and good Samaritans who rushed to render aid immediately following the crash. Their quick and compassionate actions embody the very best of our community.”
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