‘Lucky to be alive’ after PSNI helicopter crash

A Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) helicopter crashed last week with four people on board in mountains in Northern Ireland.

The helicopter was in the area as part of a police clearance operation relating to a separate helicopter crash on October 23 in which three people were killed.

The four people on board were able to walk away from the wreckage and were not believed to be seriously injured.

A number of partner agencies and volunteer bodies were praised for their rescue efforts.

PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Alistair Finlay said: “The helicopter was in the area as part of the final phase of the recovery and mapping operation in relation to Saturday’s tragic incident. This was the last flight as part of that operation.

“We believe the helicopter was going to land close to Saturday’s crash site when the incident occurred. The helicopter turned upside down but all four people on board were able to get out. They are lucky to be alive.

“The RAF helicopter was then able to reach the casualties with the assistance of the Irish coastguard on the ground. Thanks to their skill and expertise, all four casualties were brought to safety and taken to hospital for treatment. One of them is believed to have sustained a head injury but none of their injuries are thought to be serious at this stage.”

The recovery and mapping operation the injured were involved in had been taking place in the area all week. The operation was described as “very difficult” but Mr Finlay added that this was part of police work.

Brian Rea, acting chair of the Northern Ireland Policing Board, said: “I have spoken to the chief constable this morning about the accident involving a police helicopter in the Mourne Mountains and am relieved that none of the four police officers on board were seriously injured.”

An investigation is now underway.