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Two killed as helicopter crashes into field in North Yorkshire

Specialist air crash investigators have been despatched to the crash site, while the public have been 'strongly urged' to avoid the area.

Two people have died after a helicopter crashed into a field in North Yorkshire.

An investigation is underway into why the aircraft came down near Burton in Lonsdale - the cause is currently unknown.

Emergency services rushed to the scene off Bentham Road after the helicopter crashed shortly before midday.

North Yorkshire Police confirmed later on Monday afternoon that two people were killed as a result.

Their families are being supported by specially trained officers, the force added.

No one else is believed to have been on board.

Aerial pictures of the scene appear to show the burned wreckage of the helicopter, as emergency services work nearby.

People have been "strongly urged" to avoid the area.

Sky News North of England correspondent Frazer Maude, close to the scene, said a large area around the crash site has been cordoned off as the investigation continues.

"As I say, we believe that this helicopter crashed shortly after take-off.

"We're not sure whether that was due to pilot error or mechanical failure. It could have been any number of things.

"At the moment, it seems as though it's pretty perfect conditions today, very clear skies, no significant wind or anything like that.

"So the two main causes, I would imagine, that the air accident investigators are looking into will either pilot error or mechanical failure."

He said he spoke to a local farmer who saw a plume of smoke going into the sky, but did not hear the crash.

https://news.sky.com/story/helicopter-crashes-into-field-in-north-yorkshire-12637392