Specialist divers have recovered the body of a man believed to be the pilot of a light aircraft that crashed into an Essex reservoir in what police describe as a deliberate act.
Search Concludes with Tragic Discovery
Essex Police confirmed that a man's body was pulled from Hanningfield Reservoir on Tuesday afternoon, concluding a major search operation. The force was initially called to the scene of a 'serious incident' shortly after 2pm on Sunday. The reservoir is located between Chelmsford and Billericay.
The aircraft involved was a privately owned Beagle B121 Pup. It had departed from North Weald Airfield just before 12pm on Sunday. Police sources indicated that notes were found from the pilot suggesting he intended to take his own life.
Flight Data Points to Deliberate Descent
Data from flight tracking service FlightRadar24 provided crucial details about the aircraft's final moments. It showed the plane made a rapid descent, losing approximately 1,800 feet of altitude in mere seconds before its signal was lost.
The total flight time was recorded as one hour and 23 minutes. During this period, data indicates the pilot circled the Hanningfield Reservoir several times before the crash occurred.
Chief Superintendent Waheed Khan stated: 'I would firstly like to recognise that someone has lost their life in tragic circumstances. Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by this incident.'
Investigation Concludes, File for Coroner
Officers confirmed there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident. A file is now being prepared for HM Coroner. Formal identification of the man will be carried out sensitively in conjunction with the coroner's office.
Chief Supt Khan detailed the meticulous search: 'Using sonar equipment under the water the teams methodically scanned the reservoir floor. This has resulted in the discovery of debris and, crucially, a body. We believe this is the body of the sole occupant of the aircraft and our search activity has therefore concluded.'
The aircraft had been listed for sale with Just Plane Trading Ltd for approximately £55,000. Its online advertisement described it as 'superb in every respect' and a 'joy to fly'.
Essex and Suffolk Water assured the public that the incident has not impacted water supplies to customers. A spokesperson said: 'Essex and Suffolk water teams are managing the reservoir carefully to ensure that water quality and ecology are protected.'
Responsibility for the reservoir site has now been handed back to its owners.
