UK Royal Navy Merlin Helicopter Crashes in Southwest England, 3 Crew Members Killed

(Central News Agency, London, 3rd Combined Foreign Reports) The UK Ministry of Defence announced today that a Royal Navy Merlin Mk4 helicopter crashed in the early hours of this morning in Devon, southwest England, resulting in the deaths of all three naval personnel on board.

According to AFP, the accident occurred around 4:00 AM local time (11:00 AM Taiwan time) while the three crew members were conducting a training exercise. The helicopter crashed near the village of Sourton.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the incident as "truly heartbreaking," stating, "I send my deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the three Royal Navy personnel who have tragically lost their lives this morning."

First Sea Lord Gwyn Jenkins confirmed that an investigation into the cause of the crash has been initiated. (Compiled by Chang Cheng-chien) 1150604