A tragic aviation accident has claimed two lives in Greater Manchester, England, after a light aircraft crashed in farmland near Littleborough. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning, February 3, sending shockwaves through the local community and prompting a massive emergency response.
Details of the Fatal Crash
The aircraft is believed to have taken off from Birmingham around 10 am before it came down in a rural area close to Hollingworth Lake and Blackstone Edge. Greater Manchester Police confirmed that the bodies of two men were recovered from the wreckage and both were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have stated that no one else is thought to have been on board the aircraft, and fortunately, there were no injuries reported on the ground.
Emergency Services Mobilize
The crash triggered a major emergency operation, with helicopters spotted flying over the area and a significant ground response. A local resident described to media outlets that "more than 100" emergency vehicles, including ambulances, police cars, CID units, cranes, and foam units, rushed toward the crash site. The weather conditions in Littleborough at the time were described as "awful," with very windy conditions, intermittent showers, fog, and grey skies, which may have played a role in the incident.
Investigation Underway
Chief Superintendent Danny Inglis from GMP’s Rochdale district expressed condolences, stating, "This is a devastating incident where two people have lost their lives and our thoughts are with their families and friends." He added that officers and investigators would remain on the scene overnight and into the next day to conduct a comprehensive survey and recover all available evidence. An enhanced police presence is expected in the area as the investigation progresses.
Notably, a torn parachute was observed dangling from a pylon near where the aircraft hit the ground, adding a curious element to the crash scene. The Air Accidents Investigations Branch has confirmed that they are investigating the crash to determine the full circumstances and cause of this tragic event.
