Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has acknowledged it is a 'deeply worrying time' for the families of Royal Navy servicemen following a helicopter crash in Devon. The incident, involving what appeared to be a Merlin helicopter, occurred just before 4am on Wednesday in a field at Sourton Down, near Okehampton.
Details of the Crash
Images from the scene show the front of the aircraft was destroyed. Merlin helicopters typically have a crew of four and can carry up to 24 troops. Emergency services are currently at the scene, and several road closures are in place around the A386 and A30 Sourton Cross slip and services area.
Prime Minister's Statement
During Prime Minister's Questions, Sir Keir Starmer told MPs he was 'aware of a Royal Navy helicopter crash this morning in Devon'. He added: 'This will be a deeply worrying time for the families and more information will be set out as soon as possible.'
Witness Account
Local resident Eddie Amhof told ITV News he heard engines cut out before seeing an 'almighty flash of red' when the helicopter crashed. He described hearing a 'horrendous noise' from the helicopter, which then moved away about half a mile before the engines went silent. 'At the same time as the engines went, there was an almighty flash of red which lit up the sky. About five to six minutes after that there was a big bang, an explosion,' he said.
Investigation Underway
A Royal Navy spokesperson confirmed: 'An investigation is under way and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.' The crash site lies between the Royal Navy's air bases at Yeovilton in Somerset and Culdrose in Cornwall, and is close to Okehampton battle camp, a military facility used for training Merlin helicopter crews from the Commando Helicopter Force.
The Merlin helicopter is primarily used for anti-submarine warfare, but can also be used for search and rescue, cargo transfers, and maritime patrol, according to the Royal Navy's website.
