A Royal Navy helicopter crashed into a field near Okehampton, Devon, early Tuesday morning, prompting a major incident declaration by emergency services. The incident occurred at Sourton Down around 03:45 BST, leading to road closures and advice for motorists to avoid the area.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the crash as a "deeply worrying time for the families" involved. The Royal Navy has confirmed an investigation is underway but declined further comment, stating it would be "inappropriate to comment further at this time." More details are expected to be released in due course, according to the Prime Minister.

Devon and Cornwall Police Chief Constable James Vaughan confirmed the emergency services were called to the scene. The Royal Navy spokesperson indicated that the investigation is ongoing, involving multiple agencies including the Civil Aviation Authority. Witness accounts described hearing mechanical noises as the helicopter flew overhead, with one person reporting it sounded like it was "clearly in trouble and it sounded like it was mechanically failing."

The crash site is in an area frequently used for military helicopter training. North Dartmoor, located between the Royal Navy's air bases at Yeovilton and Culdrose, is a common training ground. The proximity to Okehampton battle camp, a military facility used for training Merlin helicopter crews, further highlights the military presence in the region. The helicopter involved is understood to be based at RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset.

Roads including the A386 between Sourton Down and Fowley Cross in Okehampton were closed shortly after the crash, impacting local services. Staff at Sourton Cross Service Station reported inaccessibility due to the closures. The scene was described by a BBC reporter as "devastating" with visible wreckage in the field.

The Prime Minister made his remarks during Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons. He acknowledged awareness of the crash and reiterated that further information would be provided as it became available.

This incident raises concerns for the families of those involved and highlights the inherent risks associated with military aviation operations. While the specific cause of the crash remains under investigation, the location suggests the helicopter may have been engaged in routine training exercises.

Further updates are anticipated as the investigation progresses, with authorities working to determine the factors contributing to the helicopter's descent and subsequent crash.