Three Royal Navy Personnel Die in Sourton Helicopter Training Crash, Investigation Underway

Three Royal Navy personnel have died following a helicopter training incident near Sourton, Devon. Lieutenant Commander Chris Gayson, 42, Lieutenant Lily-Mae Fisher, 31, and Petty Officer Owen Green, 24, were killed in the crash, which occurred at approximately 03:45 BST in a field.

All three personnel were based at RNAS Yeovilton, Somerset. The Defence Accident Investigation Branch has initiated an inquiry into the incident.

Commander Alex Kelley, a colleague and friend, described the deaths as a "devastating" loss to the Royal Navy, stating that the impact would be felt widely. Kelley emphasised their professionalism and the high regard in which they were held within the service.

Lieutenant Fisher, from Virginia Water in Surrey, was notably Britain's sole female Royal Navy commando, having completed the rigorous 13-week All Arms Commando Course. She was also undergoing pilot training and was due to receive her wings this month. Kelley praised Fisher's down-to-earth nature and her ability to inspire others through her pursuit of challenging endeavours.

Families of the deceased have released tributes. Fisher's relatives described her as "an extraordinary woman" who left an "immeasurable hole" in their lives. Green's family, from Hampshire, expressed that their "hearts will forever be broken" by his death, highlighting his kindness and warmth. Gayson's family, from Somerset, remembered him as "an extremely kind and gentle family man" who was deeply passionate about his service in the Royal Navy.

Floral tributes have been placed at the crash site and outside RNAS Yeovilton's base, honouring the fallen.