The third person to have died in the helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight has been named.
Simon Hewitt, aged 54, from Barton-upon-Humber, Lincolnshire, has been named by Hampshire Constabulary as the third victim of the horror crash.
He died alongside horse riding instructor Justyna Czoska, 52, and lorry driver Wojtek Kowalkowski, 49, both from Banbury, Hampshire Constabulary confirmed today.
The aircraft is said to have “spiralled” and smahed into a field near the A3020 Shanklin Road just before 9.30am on August 25.
In a heartbreaking tribute Simon’s family and friends described the father as a “kind man”.
The full statement read: “Simon was the most wonderful, intelligent, kind man and father. He bought so much joy and light into our lives. We are absolutely broken.”
Tributes have also poured in from the couple who tragically lose their lives.
Justyna Czoska’s daughters and family said: “We are heartbroken to share the passing of our mum, she was beautiful, funny, talkative, optimistic and kind – always wanting to make those around her happy. She was our best friend, we miss the sound of her voice, we will miss her forever. The memories with her will last a lifetime”.
Wojciech Kowalkowski’s family said he was: “the father of two loving children, and will be deeply missed”. Justyna’s daughter added: “He always made me happy and always made my mum happy and always made what was a family. He helped and was a heart-filled person”.
The helicopter that crashed in a field near Ventnor on the Isle of Wight on Monday was being used for a flying lesson.
A fourth person in the helicopter, a man aged in his 30’s, was taken to hospital where he remains in a stable condition.
Police are continuing to work alongside the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) and the Coroner to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident.
Activity at the crash site is expected to be completed by the end of Wednesday August 27.
We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
