A scene of urgent activity unfolded in Bentley as emergency services converged on a field off Ings Road. Dozens of police officers, paramedics, and firefighters rushed to the location, responding to reports of a helicopter crash that sent ripples of concern through the community.
The aircraft, identified as a Robinson R44 Raven II, lay on its side in the field, a stark silhouette against the landscape. Initial assessments revealed the helicopter appeared largely intact, despite the force of the impact. Footage from the scene captured a black helicopter with a distinctive yellow stripe.
The crash site is remarkably isolated, nestled between two railway lines in an area rarely frequented by the public. Local councilor James Church described the location as remote, emphasizing the unusual nature of the incident. Businesses in a neighboring industrial estate confirmed the proximity of the crash.
Workers within the industrial estate were instructed to remain indoors by responding officers. Staff at Refood UK reported being advised to stay within the building as emergency personnel secured the area and began their investigation. Witnesses described the sudden arrival of emergency vehicles.
One individual recounted that the helicopter went down in a field directly adjacent to their workplace. An employee at Nortech Foods noted the swift response of emergency services, but reported hearing nothing unusual prior to the event. The silence before the crash remains a puzzling detail.
Tragically, authorities confirmed that one man died in the incident. Detective Chief Inspector Gary Magnay expressed deep sorrow for the victim’s family and loved ones. A full joint investigation has been launched, working in conjunction with the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB).
Investigators are appealing for information from anyone who may have witnessed the events leading up to the crash. Authorities are specifically seeking accounts from individuals who were in the area at the time, hoping to piece together a comprehensive understanding of what occurred.
