Three Royal Navy personnel have died after a helicopter crashed into a field in Devon during a training exercise. The incident occurred near the A30 in Sourton Down, close to Okehampton, and emergency services attended the scene.
Princess Kate, Commodore-in-Chief of the Fleet Air Arm, said she and Prince William hold the victims' families and friends "in our hearts". The Ministry of Defence confirmed the deaths, stating that the families have been informed and have requested privacy. The head of the Navy, General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, expressed deep sadness.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the crash as "utterly tragic" and thanked emergency services. North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team and Cornwall Air Ambulance also paid tribute, highlighting the close-knit aviation community.
The helicopter involved was a Merlin Mk4, typically used for anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and troop transport. A former senior RAF officer noted that the area is a standard training zone for low-level flying and concealed approaches. Police have urged the public not to share images or videos of the crash online.
