Three Royal Navy staff dead after helicopter crashes into Devon field

A Royal Navy helicopter has crashed into a field in Devon, killing three navy staff.

A Royal Navy spokesperson said: "It is with deep sadness that we can confirm three members of the Royal Navy have died during a helicopter training exercise.

"Our thoughts and sympathies are with their families and friends at this sad time."

The head of the Navy, General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, added in a statement that he was "deeply saddened to share the news," and confirmed it was a Merlin Mk4 helicopter that was involved.

"I know this will come as a huge shock to all in our Naval community, and my deepest condolences go out to the families, friends and loved ones impacted by this tragedy.

"I would like to thank Devon and Cornwall Police and the search and rescue teams who responded to the incident this morning.

"An investigation is under way, and further updates will be provided in due course."

Devon and Cornwall Police said earlier that emergency services were at the scene of the incident at Sourton Down, near Okehampton.

The Navy added on Wednesday morning that the crash happened just before 4am.

Several road closures were in place around the A386 and A30 Sourton Cross area after the incident.

According to Traffic England, disruption was expected on the A30 eastbound exit slip to the A386 until around 12.30pm.

The Royal Navy's two air bases are located close to Devon: RNAS Culdrose, one of Europe's largest helicopter bases, is located near Helston in Cornwall, while RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset houses more than 100 aircraft.

The scene of the crash is close to Okehampton battle camp, a military facility on the edge of Dartmoor which has been used for training Merlin helicopter crews from the Commando Helicopter Force.

Merlin helicopters, such as the Merlin Mk4 involved in the incident, usually have a crew of four and can carry up to 24 troops.

Sir Keir Starmer called the incident "utterly tragic," and said: "My thoughts are with the families, friends and loved ones of the three members of the Royal Navy who sadly lost their lives this morning.

"Thank you to the emergency services responding to this horrific incident."

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Defence Secretary John Healey said in a statement that the three Navy staff "served with excellence and will be much missed".

"All our thoughts are with their families, friends and those they served with at this incredibly sad time," he added.

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