NI Peer Dies In Helicopter Crash

Northern Ireland peer Lord Ballyedmond has been killed along with three other men in a helicopter crash in England.

The aircraft came down last night in thick fog in Norfolk near the stately home of Edward Haughey, who became Lord Ballyedmond in 2004.

Norfolk police arrived at the scene in Gillingham, near Beccles, at 19:30 following reports from the public of a loud crash.

Police have confirmed that all four occupants on board were pronounced dead at the scene.

It has been reported that another victim was also from Northern Ireland and worked for Lord Ballyedmond.

The helicopter has been confirmed as an Augusta Westland AW139 helicopter.

Chief Superintendent Bob Scully said: "On behalf of the force I would like to pass on my condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of those who have sadly lost their lives in this tragic incident.

"Police, along with our emergency service colleagues, have been working through the night to secure the scene.

"Limited investigations have taken place so far due to the dark, cold and foggy conditions. However, with daylight and hopefully clearer conditions a more detailed examination of the crash site can get underway.

"At this time we do not know when the aircraft will be recovered. It is important that the public stay away from the area – the cordon is in place to allow our experts to carry out these processes safely."

The aircraft has been confirmed as an Augusta Westland AW139 helicopter.

70-year-old Lord Ballyedmond was one of Northern Ireland's richest men and the founder and owner of Norbrook Laboratories in Newry, County Down.

Ni Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said: "It is with great sadness that I learnt of the passing of Lord Ballyedmond and I would like to extend my most sincere condolences to his friends and family.

"Without doubt, Lord Ballyedmond was one of Northern Ireland’s most successful entrepreneurs, and he was known for his leadership, integrity and global vision. One-of-a-kind and a self-made businessman, he was both highly regarded and widely respected by all those who knew him.

"Norbrook Laboratories currently exports to more than 120 countries worldwide and Lord Ballyedmond worked tirelessly to promote Northern Ireland as an investment location. Not only has he made a huge contribution to the local economy but Lord Ballyedmond also devoted much of his time to charitable works and this is to be highly commended.

"Lord Ballyedmond will be sadly missed and his passing is a great loss to both the business and wider community."

(IT)