Fears are growing for the pilot of a small aircraft that crashed into a field just outside the village of Ongar in Essex on Tuesday afternoon. The plane came down at approximately 12:30pm in a field off Mill Lane, prompting a major emergency response.
Neighbour describes scene
A local resident told Metro: “There was a police car blocking off the road but nobody would tell us what happened. We couldn’t see the plane from where we are. It is a good job it didn’t hit any houses. There is North Weald airfield nearby but nothing has happened like this. We hope they managed to get out in time.”
Police confirm serious incident
An Essex Police spokesman said: “We remain on the scene of a serious incident at Ongar. We were alerted at 12.30pm on Tuesday 30 June to reports of a crash involving a small aircraft in a field at Mill Lane, Ongar. We are working with all emergency services at the scene now and that work will be ongoing.”
Detective Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin added: “This is a serious incident, and we understand it will cause concern in the local community. We are working closely with emergency service partners to respond and ensure the area is safe. There will be a visible police presence as we deal with this incident. We would ask residents to avoid Mill Lane while this work continues and thank them for their patience and understanding. We will provide further updates as soon as we are able.”
Investigation underway
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has been notified and is expected to attend the scene. The cause of the crash is not yet known. The pilot’s condition remains unclear, and no other injuries have been reported. Police have cordoned off Mill Lane and are advising motorists to avoid the area.
