Three British navy personnel killed in helicopter crash in England
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Three British navy personnel died in a helicopter crash during a training exercise in Devon, England.
- The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed the fatalities and expressed condolences to the families.
- An investigation into the cause of the early-morning accident is underway, with few details released.
A fatal helicopter crash during a training exercise in northwestern England has claimed the lives of three British naval personnel. The incident occurred early Wednesday near the village of Sourton in Devon. The UK Ministry of Defence announced the news with profound sadness, stating that their thoughts are with the families and friends of the deceased.
Our thoughts and sympathies are with their families and friends at this sad time.
Few details surrounding the circumstances of the early-morning accident have been made public. A Royal Navy spokesperson confirmed the crash took place during a training exercise. Local police were present at the scene, and a spokesperson described the incident as ongoing. The head of the navy, General Gwyn Jenkin, has initiated an investigation into the cause of the crash.
The incident is ongoing, and we will share more updates as we have them.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer acknowledged the incident, expressing that it would be a deeply worrying time for the families involved. He indicated that more information would be released as soon as possible. The Ministry of Defence has requested a "period of grace" for the victims' families before further details are disclosed. The location of the crash is in an area known to host several naval bases, including HMNB Devonport, one of Western Europe's largest naval facilities.
This will be a deeply worrying time for the families and more information will be set out as soon as possible.
Originally published by Al Jazeera. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.