(Image: PA Wire)

Flowers left at Devon helicopter crash scene as tributes paid

by · DevonLive

Devastated members of the public have laid floral tributes in the aftermath of yesterday's helicopter tragedy in Devon.

A Merlin Mk4 crashed in a field near Sourton in the early hours of Wednesday morning (June 3), with the Ministry of Defence confirming that three members of the Royal Navy died "during a helicopter training exercise".

Floral tributes have started appearing beside the A386, where the emergency services are continuing their investigation into the crash.

A wreath of poppies has been left at the scene encircling the logo for Okehampton Army Cadets, while a bunch of flowers laid on the grass carried the message: "Our deepest condolences to your families and friends. Thank you for your service."

DevonLive spoke to members of the public in Okehampton and Sourton as the investigation at the scene entered a second day today.

Dee, a Sourton resident, said: “My heart goes out to the families, they were just doing their job. It's such a tragic accident."

Jon Kwon, 43, who also lives in Sourton, added: "It's tragic. You wouldn't expect such a thing to happen.

"I saw the footage of the crash and was just shocked. I've got four children and my son is interested in the military, it was awful to see.

"The people who died must have been young, potentially trainees, my thoughts are with their families."

DevonLive understands an authorised tribute site is being considered close to the site, in a safer location compared to the busy roadside.

Many people in Okehampton reported hearing the buzz of military aircraft overhead on Tuesday night. One said: “It was very sad, we see them doing circuits sometimes. It’s such a shame."

The Vicar of Okehampton, the Reverand Claire Reynolds, said: "Okehampton is shocked and saddened by these events. The town has close ties with the armed forces with Okehampton camp just being on the edge of town.

"Our deepest sympathy to all affected, our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends. And we give thanks for the amazing emergency services, for all the help they have given, and for those involved at the scene."

A spokesperson for the MoD said yesterday: “It is with deep sadness that we can confirm three members of the Royal Navy have died during a helicopter training exercise on Wednesday June 3 near Sourton.

“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.” A cause is yet to be disclosed and investigations continue.

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Floral tributes left at the scene near Sourton Down, Okehampton, where a Royal Navy helicopter crashed(Image: DevonLive)
DevonLive understands an authorised tribute site is being considered close to the site, in a safer location compared to the busy roadside.(Image: DevonLive)
The tributes have been laid next to one side of the police cordon, as investigations continue at the crash site(Image: DevonLive)