Three Royal Navy personnel died when their Merlin Mk4 helicopter crashed into a field near Okehampton, Devon, during a training flight early Wednesday morning. The accident occurred around 3:45 a.m., killing all three crew members aboard.

The victims have been identified as Lieutenant Lily-Mae Fisher, 31, from Surrey; Lieutenant Commander Chris Gayson, 42, from Somerset; and Petty Officer Owen Green, 24, from Hampshire. Fisher was notable as the United Kingdom’s only female commando and was undergoing her final flying training assessment at the time of the crash. Gayson served as the Operational Conversion Flight Commander of 846 Naval Air Squadron, while Green had recently earned his aircrewman wings in 2025 after a rapid progression through the ranks.

The Ministry of Defence described the three aviators as "deeply capable and professional," and “cherished members” of the Commando Helicopter Force, also known as the Junglies. Colonel Will Penkman, the commanding officer of the force, expressed sorrow over the loss, stating that the crew “were highly committed professionals infused with the Junglie spirit.” He added that their deaths leave “a terrible gap” in the unit and extended condolences to the families and friends affected.

Lieutenant Fisher, who grew up in Virginia Water, had been recognized by NATO for her pioneering achievements. Before her military career, she worked as a BP exploration geologist and was an accomplished athlete, having represented Great Britain in triathlons and competed in ultra-marathons worldwide. She also appeared on ITV shows such as Take Me Out and Ninja Warrior UK. She was expected to receive her pilot’s wings later this month. Fisher’s family described her as “an extraordinary woman” who was “full of life” and continually sought to push her limits and inspire others.

Lieutenant Commander Gayson’s family emphasized his gentleness and devotion both to his family and his role in the Royal Navy. Petty Officer Green’s relatives said the loss left them “devastated,” noting he was a caring son, brother, grandson, and partner to his fiancée, Iona.

Defence Secretary John Healey paid tribute to the three crew members, describing them as “dedicated and highly valued members” of their squadrons, all based at Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton in Somerset. An investigation into the cause of the crash is underway by the Defence Accident Investigation Branch.