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Three members of the UK’s Royal Navy have died while taking part in a training exercise in the southwest of the country, the service announced on Wednesday.
In a statement posted to social media, the Royal Navy said the incident took place in the early hours of Wednesday morning near the village of Sourton in Devon. Emergency services responded to the scene and an investigation is ongoing.
“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives,” the navy said in its statement. “All three families have been informed and are receiving specialist support”.
Video footage circulating on social media appears to show the helicopter engulfed in flames in a field.
The aircraft involved was reportedly a Merlin Mk4, which is primarily used for Royal Marines’ “elevated” operations.
One witness told the BBC that they had heard sounds that seemed to indicate “troubled mechanics” as a helicopter flew over the area.
John Healey, the UK Secretary of State for Defence, thanked emergency services for their response to the scene and said he was “devastated by the loss” of the service personnel.
“They served with excellence and will be much missed,” he added.