A Royal Navy helicopter crashed into a field in Devon, southwest England, early Wednesday, prompting a massive emergency response and blocking roads in the area, authorities said.The incident occurred at Sutton Down, near Okehampton, on the northern edge of Dartmoor, an area frequently used for military aviation training exercises, The Guardian reported.Devon and Cornwall Police said emergency services were attending the scene and said the situation was ongoing.The Ministry of Defense confirmed that the aircraft involved belonged to the Royal Navy. However, officials have not yet released details about the type of helicopter, the number of people on board or whether there were any casualties.A Royal Navy spokesman said the crash occurred shortly before 4am local time (BST) and that an investigation had been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.“It would be inappropriate to comment further at this time,” the spokesman said, adding that the investigation was continuing.
Emergency services deployed, roads closed
Police, fire and ambulance crews were dispatched to the scene, with paramedics remaining at the scene for several hours after the incident. Authorities have established a cordon around the area while response and investigations continue.Road closures began around 4.30am, affecting major routes near the accident site.National Highways said the A386 was closed between the A30 at Sourton Down and the A3079 at Fowley Cross, near Okhampton, and was expected to remain closed until at least midday.A number of restrictions are also in place around the A30 Sourton Cross slip road and nearby services.The crash occurred in an area where military helicopters often conduct training flights. While the cause of the incident is unclear, aviation investigators and military officials are expected to examine the wreckage and flight conditions as part of the investigation.Staff at the nearby Sourton Cross service station reported that access to the facility was affected due to emergency operations.Devon and Cornwall Police said further information would be released as it becomes available. Authorities have asked motorists to avoid the area and follow diversions while emergency and investigation teams continue to work at the scene.
