Investigations at Essex plane crash site conclude after three days
Searches finished and aircraft removed following the tragic incident in Ongar
Last updated 21 hours ago
Investigations into a deadly plane crash in Essex have now concluded after Essex Police and the Air Accident Investigation Branch finished their searches.
The meticulous three-day search at the field off Mill Lane in Ongar concluded on Thursday (2 July).
The two people on board, who have not been formally identified, both died.
Detective Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin expressed gratitude towards everyone involved in the investigation, appreciating the local community for their patience and support.
In a statement, Cronin said, “Yesterday, we left the crash site having completed a meticulous three-day search. Two people who were on board the aircraft have been removed from the site. Although formal identification is yet to take place, our thoughts remain with the deceaseds’ families who are being supported by specially trained officers at this difficult time."
The Disaster Victim Identification process is currently underway, led by His Majesty’s Coroner, with support from emergency services and the AAIB.
This complex work, overseen by experts and chaired by the coroner, will only confirm the identities when fully satisfied with the forensic findings, which include DNA and fingerprint analysis.
Families are being kept informed throughout the identification process by Family Liaison Officers.
Detective Chief Inspector Louise Metcalfe, who is leading the Essex Police investigation, is appealing for witnesses and anyone with footage or information to aid the investigation.
Metcalfe stated, “I’d continue to appeal for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. I’d particularly ask that anyone who was driving in the vicinity at the time to check their dash cam to see if they have captured footage that could help our investigation. Similarly, anyone with camera or phone footage, is asked to contact us."
The aircraft has been dismantled and removed from the site as the investigations continue.
Essex Police are working in tandem with AAIB investigators to find answers surrounding the crash.