Authorities confirmed on Wednesday that at least 19 people were killed in wildfires surrounding southeast South Korea, and a fire helicopter crashed amid efforts to contain the fire.

Three victims were found in Yeongyang and six victims in Yeongdeok, according to Seoul-based Yonhap News. In Cheongsong, another person is still missing, while another 10 people are injured, 2 of whom are in serious condition.

A 73-year-old pilot was killed while fighting the Uiseons, located about 180 kilometers southeast of Seoul, while his S-76 helicopter (reported to be in service for 30 years). After the incident, all fire helicopters were rooted by the authorities.

Acting President Han Duck-Su described the wildfire as “the worst ever” in the country’s history and called for “going all out” to stop its spread.

The acting president said that the fire has burned 17,000 hectares so far, destroying 209 homes and factories.

The fire also forced about 500 prisoners to evacuate from a prison in the Northern Gonsang province.

The flames also burned the historic Gounsa Temple in Uiseong, which was originally built in 681 AD by Buddhist monks during the Buddhist dynasty. Before the fire arrived on site, cultural officials moved the temple’s 9th-century stone seats and other historical relics to safety.

Thousands of firefighters, dozens of helicopters and emergency vehicles have been deployed since the fire began last Friday in Sancheen County, South Gonsang Province. After that, wildfires quickly spread northward to Uiseong, Andong, Cheongsong, Yeongyang and Yeongdeok under the strong winds.