Helicopter Cras

Published: 31 October 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

A tragic helicopter crash in Doncaster has claimed the life of a 70-year-old man and left three others injured, prompting an investigation by South Yorkshire Police and the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB). Emergency services rushed to a field off Ings Lane, Bentley, around 10:15 GMT on Thursday, after reports of the aircraft going down shortly after takeoff.

The helicopter, which had departed from Retford Gamston Airport in Nottinghamshire, crashed moments later under still-unknown circumstances. Despite the rapid response of paramedics and fire crews, one passenger — a 70-year-old man — was pronounced dead at the scene. Police confirmed that “despite the best efforts of medical staff,” his life could not be saved. Officers have since notified his family, who are being supported during this devastating time.

The pilot, a 41-year-old man, and two passengers — a 58-year-old woman and a 10-year-old boy — sustained minor injuries in the crash. All three were treated at the scene before being transported to hospital for further evaluation. South Yorkshire Police confirmed they are expected to make a full recovery.

Detective Inspector Matt Bolger, who is leading the police investigation, extended condolences to the victim’s loved ones. “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the man who sadly died in this tragic incident,” he said. “We are working closely with the Air Accidents Investigation Branch to establish the full circumstances behind what happened.”

Authorities have appealed for witnesses and asked anyone with video footage of the helicopter before or during the crash to come forward. “We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have seen the aircraft in flight or recorded any footage that could help us piece together the moments leading up to the crash,” Bolger added.

A significant police cordon remains in place around the crash site, with the road closed to the public as emergency services continue their work. Investigators from the AAIB — including experts in aircraft operations, engineering, and recorded flight data — have been deployed to Doncaster to assess the wreckage and recover evidence.

In a brief statement, Retford Gamston Airport confirmed that the helicopter involved was operated by one of its onsite tenants. “We can confirm an aircraft based here, operated by an onsite tenant, has been involved in an incident. We’ve no further information at this time,” the airport’s spokesperson said.

BBC reporter Liz Roberts, who is covering the scene, described the area as heavily secured, with a large police presence and private ambulances on standby. “About 500 meters down the lane from where I’m standing, I can see more police activity by the side of the field where the helicopter crashed,” she reported. “There’s a no-fly zone for drones, and the road has been closed near the Refood bioenergy site.”

Local residents expressed shock and sadness at the incident. Curtis Borkowski, a construction worker who was on a nearby site, recalled seeing the helicopter in distress before the crash. “As it flew over Doncaster, the engine sounded really bad,” he said. “About ten minutes later, we heard about the crash — it’s heartbreaking.”

Rebecca Booth, who represents Bentley on Doncaster Council, said the tragedy had deeply affected the local community. “There are a lot of people in shock,” she said. “It’s a lovely, thriving community, and everyone sticks together. Something like this will have a lasting impact on people.”

Energy Secretary and local MP Ed Miliband also offered condolences. “The news of the crash is devastating,” he said. “My thoughts are with the family and friends of the victim of this terrible incident. My office is in touch with the relevant authorities, including South Yorkshire Police, and I know the whole of Doncaster will be united in having the victim in their thoughts today.”

Another local resident, Lee Needham, noted that the crash occurred dangerously close to residential homes, railway lines, industrial units, and power pylons. “Whoever was piloting the helicopter more than likely saved numerous lives by managing to crash in an open field rather than into nearby buildings,” he said, praising the pilot’s efforts to avoid further casualties.

The AAIB’s investigation is expected to take several months, with early findings likely to focus on possible mechanical failure or adverse flight conditions. In the meantime, police have maintained a strong presence at the scene to ensure public safety and preserve evidence.

As Doncaster mourns the victim and prays for the recovery of those injured, officials have reassured the public that a full and transparent investigation will take place to determine the cause of this tragic crash.