Royal Navy Helicopter Crashes Into Field in Devon, Investigation Underway
A Royal Navy helicopter crashed into a field in Devon early Wednesday morning, prompting a police response described as “ongoing.” Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that emergency services are at the scene in Sourton Down, near Okehampton, following the incident. The Ministry of Defence identified the aircraft as belonging to the Royal Navy.
Incident Details and Emergency Response
The crash occurred just before 04:00 British Summer Time, according to a Royal Navy spokesperson. Devon and Cornwall Police declared the situation “ongoing” as they coordinated the emergency response. Road closures were implemented in the area around the crash site shortly after the incident, at approximately 04:30. National Highways stated that the closure of the A386, between the A30 at Sourton Down and the A3079 Fowley Cross in Okehampton, is expected to remain in place until 13:30. Staff at Sourton Cross Service Station, located near the scene, reported that the services are currently inaccessible to the public.
Investigation and Official Statements
A Royal Navy spokesperson confirmed that an investigation is underway, adding that “it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.” The Ministry of Defence verified that the helicopter belonged to the Royal Navy, though no further details on the type of aircraft or the number of personnel on board have been released. Military helicopters often train in the area around north Dartmoor, a region used for routine flight exercises.
Traffic Disruptions and Local Impact
Road closures have been put in place near the A30 and A386 in Devon, affecting local traffic flow. The A386 closure is expected to last until early afternoon, with drivers advised to avoid the area. Sourton Cross Service Station, a nearby facility, remains inaccessible due to the ongoing police and emergency operations. BBC Devon reported that residents in Sourton Down have been advised to follow local updates.
Context
This incident follows a pattern of military helicopter accidents in the United Kingdom. In March 2024, a Royal Air Force helicopter crashed in Norfolk, leading to a similar emergency response and road closures. In 2022, a Royal Navy Merlin helicopter made an emergency landing in Cornwall, with investigations later citing technical failure. Both cases involved extensive coordination between local police, the Ministry of Defence, and civilian authorities.