Catherine and Prince William paid tribute to three Royal Navy personnel who lost their lives during a training exercise in Devon.
Catherine has shared a heartfelt message after three Royal Navy service members were killed in a helicopter crash during a training exercise in Devon.
The incident occurred on Wednesday when a Merlin Mk4 helicopter went down during operations, resulting in the deaths of three personnel at the scene.
In response to the tragedy, Catherine released a personal statement through the official social media account she shares with Prince William.
“I was so saddened to hear of the tragic loss of three service personnel from the Fleet Air Arm following a helicopter training exercise last night,” she wrote.
The Princess of Wales continued, “William and I hold their families and friends in our hearts at this very difficult time,” signing the message with her initial, “C,” for Catherine.
The helicopter involved was part of the Commando Helicopter Force, a Royal Marines unit operating 25 Merlin Mk4 aircraft from RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset.
The Royal Navy also expressed its sorrow in an official statement, confirming the deaths of the three personnel.
“We are incredibly sad to report that three members of the Royal Navy have died during a helicopter training exercise near Sourton, Devon,” the statement said.
The Navy extended its condolences to the families and loved ones of those who died and confirmed that emergency services responded quickly to the scene. An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the crash.
Officials added that the families of the victims have been informed and are receiving specialist support from the Royal Navy during this difficult time.
