The only female commando officer in the British Royal Navy died in a helicopter accident.

Three people, including the only female commando officer serving in the British Royal Navy, have died in a helicopter crash in Devon. The MK4 Merlin helicopter, which crashed into a field in the Sorton Down area around 4:00 AM last Wednesday, was engaged in a military training exercise at the time of the accident.

It is reported that the aircraft was completely destroyed in the accident, which occurred amidst very severe weather conditions with strong winds, heavy rain, and minimal visibility.

The British Ministry of Defence has confirmed that the three individuals who tragically lost their lives are 31-year-old Lieutenant Lily-Mae Fisher, 42-year-old Lieutenant Commander Chris Gayson, and 24-year-old Chief Officer Owen Green. Defence Secretary John Healey and Colonel Will Penman, Commanding Officer of the Commando Helicopter Force, expressed deep sorrow over their passing, describing the three officers as excellent professionals who served their forces with high dedication. A special investigation has now been launched to determine the cause of the accident, and the families of the deceased have been informed.

Local witnesses stated that at the time of the accident, they heard the helicopter's engine fail, followed by a large red light streaking across the sky, and then a massive explosion a few minutes later. Merlin MK4 helicopters, like the one involved in this accident, are commonly used for maritime border surveillance, search and rescue operations, and anti-submarine warfare. Previously, in 2024, a similar Merlin aircraft crashed into the English Channel, killing an officer named Lieutenant Rhodri Leeson.

The deceased, Ms. Lily-Mae Fisher, joined the Royal Navy in May 2019 and successfully completed the difficult 16-week all-arms commando course, which only a very small number of women pass. She also excelled in sports, representing Britain at the European Triathlon Age Group Championships in 2021, and participated in several popular British television programs. Firmly believing that women could also successfully complete Royal Marine courses, she had previously stated that serving her country was a great honor for her.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his sorrow regarding this tragedy and thanked the emergency services for their contributions. Furthermore, Ms. Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, who serves as the Commodore-in-Chief of the Fleet Air Arm, also issued a statement saying that she and Prince William will always stand with the families and friends of the deceased officers during this difficult time.