Published：Jun 3, 08:41Last updated：Jun 5, 08:56

Royal Navy Helicopter Crash in Devon Kills Three Crew Members

Jun. 3, 2026 08:41

A Royal Navy helicopter crashed into a field in Sourton Down, near Okehampton, Devon. Emergency services are at the scene responding to the incident. No further details about casualties or the cause of the crash have been released. The incident is under investigation.

Summarized

15News

8Media

Jun. 4, 2026 20:00

Three Royal Navy members died when their Merlin Mk4 helicopter crashed during a training exercise in Devon on June 4, 2026. The victims were Lieutenant Lily-Mae Fisher, Lieutenant Commander Chris Gayson, and Petty Officer Owen Green. Defence secretary John Healey described them as dedicated and highly valued members of their squadrons. The crash occurred near Okehampton, leaving the aircraft completely destroyed.

Jun. 5, 2026 08:56

Three Royal Navy personnel died in a helicopter training crash in Devon on June 5, 2026. The victims, Lt Cdr Chris Gayson, Lt Lily-Mae Fisher, and Petty Officer Owen Green, were highly respected members of the navy. An investigation into the crash is underway. Tributes highlighted their professionalism and impact.

A Royal Navy Merlin Mk4 helicopter crashed during a training exercise near Okehampton, Devon, on June 3-4, 2026, killing all three crew members. The incident occurred in the early morning hours near Sourton, with wreckage scattered across the site. The victims were identified as Lieutenant Commander Chris Gayson (42), Lieutenant Lily-Mae Fisher (31), and Petty Officer Owen Green (24), all highly respected members of the Commando Helicopter Force based in Somerset. The Defence Accident Investigation Branch has launched a full inquiry into the cause of the crash. ChinaNews+2

🚨 Incident Overview

The helicopter went down during routine training operations, completely destroying the aircraft. Emergency services responded promptly, closing nearby roads including sections of the A30 and A386 until midday for recovery operations. Initial reports confirmed no survivors at the scene. The crash marks one of the deadliest training accidents in recent Royal Navy history. ChinaNews+2

🕵️ Investigation Status

Investigators are examining wreckage and flight data to determine the cause, with no immediate indications of mechanical failure or adverse weather. The Defence Accident Investigation Branch is leading the inquiry, supported by Royal Navy specialists. Preliminary findings suggest the helicopter was conducting standard maneuvers before the crash. BBC News+2

🏴 Government Response

Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Defence Secretary John Healey paid tribute to the fallen personnel, praising their dedication and service. The Princess of Wales and senior naval officials also expressed condolences. The Ministry of Defence emphasized transparency in the investigation while acknowledging the inherent risks of military training. BBC News+2

⚓ Crew Tributes

Lt Cdr Gayson was described as an experienced leader, Lt Fisher as a rising star in naval aviation, and PO Green as a talented young technician. Colleagues highlighted their professionalism and camaraderie. Memorial services are being planned at their home base in Somerset. BBC News+2

DevonRoyal NavyKeir StarmerSourton DownMinistry of Defence