Three Royal Navy members killed in Devon helicopter crash

Ministry of Defence confirms deaths of three crew members after crash near Okehampton during training exercise

Three members of the Royal Navy have died in a helicopter crash in Devon during a training exercise, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has said.

Emergency services were called to the scene of the incident at Sourton Down, near Okehampton, around 4am on Wednesday.

The head of the Navy, Gen Sir Gwyn Jenkins, said in a statement: “I am deeply saddened to share the news that three crew members onboard a Royal Navy Merlin Mk4 helicopter have died after it crashed in the early hours of this morning near Sourton, Devon.

“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.”

In a post on social media, the MoD added: “It is with deep sadness that we can confirm three members of the Royal Navy have died during a helicopter training exercise on Wednesday 3 June near Sourton, Devon.

“The families of the service personnel have been informed and have requested a period of grace before further details are released. Our thoughts and sympathies are with their families and friends at this sad time.”

Keir Starmer said the deaths of the three personnel were “utterly tragic”.

He 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.”

The defence secretary, John Healey, said: “I am devastated by the loss of three service personnel. They 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. I thank the emergency services for their response.”

The king, who is head of the armed forces, has a long association with Royal Navy, serving with them between 1971 and 1976. He is understood to be aware of the crash and the deaths of the three service personnel, and is expected to share his condolences privately with their families.

The Princess of Wales, who is commodore-in-chief of the Fleet Air Arm, one of the navy’s five fighting arms, said she was saddened to hear of the deaths, adding: “William and I hold their families and friends in our hearts at this very difficult time.”

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