Royal Navy helicopter crashes in Devon field, sparking emergency response

A Royal Navy helicopter crashed into a field in Devon in southwest England early Wednesday morning, prompting a large-scale emergency response and road closures in the area, authorities said.

According to The Guardian, the incident took place at Sourton Down, near Okehampton, on the edge of north Dartmoor, a region frequently used for military aviation training exercises.

Devon and Cornwall Police said emergency services were attending the scene and described the situation as ongoing.

The Ministry of Defence confirmed that the aircraft involved belonged to the Royal Navy. However, officials have not yet released details about the helicopter type, the number of people on board, or whether there were any casualties.

A Royal Navy spokesperson said the crash took place shortly before 4am local time (BST) and that an investigation had been launched to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“It would be inappropriate to comment further at this time,” the spokesperson said, adding that inquiries were continuing.

Police, fire and ambulance crews were dispatched to the crash site, with emergency personnel remaining at the scene for several hours after the incident.

Authorities have established a cordon around the area while response and investigative work continues.

Road closures were introduced from around 4.30am, affecting key routes near the crash location.

National Highways said the A386 between the A30 at Sourton Down and the A3079 at Fowley Cross, near Okehampton, was closed and was expected to remain shut until at least midday.

Several restrictions were also put in place around the A30 Sourton Cross slip roads and the nearby services area.

The crash occurred in an area where military helicopters are regularly seen conducting training flights.

While the cause of the incident remains unclear, aviation investigators and military officials are expected to examine the wreckage and flight circumstances as part of the inquiry.

Staff at the nearby Sourton Cross Service Station reported that access to the facility had been affected because of the emergency operation.

Devon and Cornwall Police said further information would be released as it becomes available.

Authorities have requested motorists to avoid the area and follow diversion routes while emergency and investigative teams continue their work at the scene.