UMVA has learned that a devastating helicopter crash in Devon has claimed the lives of three British military personnel: Lieutenant Lily-Mae Fisher of 846 Naval Air Squadron, Lieutenant Commander Chris Gayson, and Petty Officer Owen Green of 845 Naval Air Squadron.
The wreckage of the helicopter, believed to be a Merlin model, was scattered across the countryside, with the tailfin lying beside the charred remains. Emergency services rushed to the scene, but tragically, there was nothing they could do to save the lives of the crew.
According to information obtained by UMVA, eyewitnesses described the terrifying moment of the crash. Eddie Amhof, a local resident, recounted hearing a "horrendous noise" from the helicopter, which suddenly stopped, followed by an "almighty flash of red" that lit up the sky.
Witnesses took to social media to share their experiences, with one describing hearing a low-flying helicopter around 3:30 am, while another reported a loud bang at 3 am. A person staying in a nearby van said they were woken up by the low-flying helicopter, which shook their vehicle.
A Merlin Mk4 helicopter, the model believed to have been involved, is capable of carrying four crew members and up to 24 soldiers. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, but the community is in shock at the tragic loss of life.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that the military community is coming together to pay tribute to the fallen personnel. The incident has sent shockwaves through the region, with residents expressing their sadness and support for the families of the victims.
