Three dead after Royal Navy helicopter crash in Devon

Emergency services rushed to the scene close to Okehampton, Devon and Cornwall Police said.

The MoD confirmed the deaths of the Navy personnel on social media, writing: "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."

In a statement, the head of the Navy, General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, said he was “deeply saddened” by the news of the fatal crash.

It read: “I know this will come as a huge shock to all in our Naval community.

“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.

He confirmed an investigation is underway and more details will be given in due course.

Sir Keir Starmer mentioned the helicopter crash during PMQs today, saying it was a "deeply worrying time" for the families of the military personnel who were involved.

He said: "This will be a deeply worrying time for the families and more information will be set out as soon as possible."

Defence Secretary John Healey said he was "devasted" by the news.

He said: "I am devastated by the loss of three service personnel overnight.

“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.”

Sources have told GB News the helicopter was a Merlin model.

Usually having a crew of three, the Merlin helicopter also has capacity to carry a further 24 passengers.

It is used by the Royal Navy for troop and logistics transport.

Manufactured by Augusta Westland, some Merlin models are configured for airbourne early warning or for anti-submarine operations.

Surrounding roads were closed from 5am this morning, impacting the A386 between the A30 at Sourton Down and also the A3079 at Fowley Cross.

"The incident is ongoing and we will share more updates as we have them," Devon and Cornwall Police said in a statement posted on Facebook just after 7am this morning.

Sourton Cross Service Station, which is located near the scene, is currently inaccessible, staff have confirmed.

Sourton Down is located in central Devon, just south of Dartmoor National Park.