A light aircraft has crashed into a wheat field near the Essex village of High Ongar, triggering a major emergency response and an investigation by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB).
Police, ambulance and fire crews were scrambled to the scene after reports of the crash at around 12.30pm on Tuesday, with officers cordoning off Mill Lane, where the plane came down in a field. Horrifying photographs from the scene show the mangled wreckage of the white aircraft lying crumpled amid the crops.
“A light aircraft crash in an Essex field prompts emergency response and AAIB investigation, pilot fate unknown.”
A neighbour told Metro: “There was a police car blocking off the road but nobody would tell us what happened. We couldn’t see the plane from where we are. It is a good job it didn’t hit any houses.” They added: “There is North Weald airfield nearby but nothing has happened like this. We hope they managed to get out in time.”
Police have not released any information about casualties. Detective Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin of Essex Police described the event as “a serious incident”, adding: “We understand it will cause concern in the local community. We are working closely with emergency service partners to respond and ensure the area is safe. There will be a visible police presence as we deal with this incident.” He urged residents to avoid Mill Lane and thanked them for their patience.
The AAIB confirmed it has launched an investigation. A spokesperson said: “An accident in Ongar, Essex involving a light aircraft which occurred today has been notified to the Air Accidents Investigation Branch. An investigation has been launched and a team of inspectors are on their way to the accident site.”
The village of St Mary’s church issued a statement: “We are aware of the incident involving a light aircraft near High Ongar today. Please join us in praying for everyone involved, for the emergency services responding, and for all those in our local community who have been affected.”
High Ongar, eight miles west of Chelmsford and just off the A414, is a small rural community. The cause of the crash remains unknown as investigators begin their work, and the condition of the pilot or any other occupants has not been disclosed.