Overview
- A helicopter came down in a field at Sourton Down near Okehampton in the early hours of Wednesday, June 3, prompting an immediate multi-agency emergency response.
- Devon and Cornwall Police put several road closures in place on the A386 and A30 around Sourton Cross, blocking access to the nearby service station and forcing drivers to use alternative routes.
- The Ministry of Defence and the Royal Navy have confirmed the aircraft was a Royal Navy helicopter and said an investigation is under way after the incident, which the Royal Navy said occurred just before 04:00.
- Authorities have not released the number of people on board or any casualty figures and emergency services described the situation as ongoing, while local witnesses reported hearing a loud bang or a low-flying chopper beforehand.
- Investigators will carry out a formal MOD/Royal Navy inquiry to establish cause and timeline, and nearby communities and road users should expect further updates and continued disruption until officials clear the scene.