Royal Navy names three personnel who died in Sourton helicopter crash
Tributes are paid to Chris Gayson, Lily-Mae Fisher, and Owen Green following the tragic training incident near Okehampton
The Royal Navy has officially confirmed the identities of the three service personnel who tragically lost their lives during a helicopter training exercise in the early hours of Wednesday, 3 June, near Sourton, Devon.
Lieutenant Commander Chris Gayson, 42, and Lieutenant Lily-Mae Fisher, 31, both of 846 Naval Air Squadron, and Petty Officer Owen Green, 24, of 845 Naval Air Squadron, died when their Merlin Mk4 helicopter crashed into a field at Sourton Down, near Okehampton.
“Our thoughts remain with their families, friends and colleagues and we continue to demand their privacy is respected at this time,” a statement from the Royal Navy read.
Emergency services were initially called to the scene at approximately 03:45 BST, where a major incident was subsequently declared.
Commanders and colleagues from across the Fighting Arms have expressed their profound grief.
Specialized support networks are actively assisting the families and loved ones during this exceptionally difficult time.
A comprehensive investigation is currently underway to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Royal Navy continues to work alongside civil emergency services and air accident investigators at the secure site on Dartmoor.