AIRSHOW CRASH: Seven confirmed dead

The Hawker Hunter was taking part in an event at Shoreham Airport, adjacent to the A27, when it crashed on to the road and ended up in a bush at 1.20pm today.

Emergency services have declared a major incident and a number of helicopters have been deployed to the scene to evacuate casualties to hospital.

The A27 has been closed at Lancing and to the north of Hove and is expected to remain closed for some considerable time.

In a statement by released by Sussex Police, a spokesman said: “South East Coast Ambulance Service has confirmed that there have been seven fatalities declared at the scene, one patient with serious life-threatening injuries has been transported to Royal Sussex County Hospital and further 14 patients treated for minor injuries.

“The casualties are all believed to have occurred on the road at this time and there are not thought to be any injuries to anyone actually on the airfield.”

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has sent ten appliances to the scene.

The Air Accident Investigation Bureau is attending the scene and have asked anyone who has video or photographs of the plane in the time leading up to and including the crash to hold on to them and await advice as to whether they may be wanted to assist with the investigation.

For a video of the crash plus a statement from a horrified spectator, see here.

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