Investigation Starts Into Spalding Plane Crash

9 October 2014, 07:20 | Updated: 9 October 2014, 09:58

An investigation's begun after a U.S. military jet came down in a field near Spalding yesterday afternoon.

The pilot managed to eject safely from the aircraft, and was left with very minor injuries.

RAF Lakenheath, the base where the aircraft came from, have confirmed it happened during a training exercise.

A spokesperson for the Airbase said, "One person was on board the aircraft at the time and ejected safely. No live weapons were on board the aircraft. An HH-60G Pave Hawk transported the pilot back safely. The pilot is now being evaluated at the RAF Lakenheath hospital.

"A board of qualified officers will investigate the accident. Additional details will be provided as soon as they become available."

As investigations continue into the cause of yesterday's F-15 jet crash at Weston Hills, a cordon remains in place around the scene.

Community Inspector Jim Tyner said: "The cordon will be staffed by Lincolnshire Police officers and officers from the MOD Police. It is very important that the forensic integrity of the scene is maintained in order that air crash investigators can carry out their work. Anyone discovered breaching the cordon could find themselves in serious trouble and any attempt by souvenir hunters to remove parts of the debris will be treated as theft.

"Neighbourhood officers are visiting Weston Hills Primary School this morning to speak to staff and pupils as yesterday's events were clearly a traumatic time for them. Bobby Bear is coming along to give certificates of bravery to the children".

Officers say any items found in area suspected to be from the plane are not to be touched, and instead people should call police.

There's also an appeal for anyone who saw what happened to come forward to police.

The surrounding roads near Spalding are still closed this morning.

A section of Broadgate is closed with access to Honeypot nursery only from Fengate Drove and Old Fendyke Road. There is no access from the South. Weston Hills Primary School is open as normal but due to diversions, you should allow extra time for your journey.

A section of Mill Drove North also remains closed.

There is no access to Weston Hills from the A16 on to Mill Drove North. The B1357 Moulton Chapel Road is open but with no access from that road on to Broadgate.

Local residents are thanked for their patience while these closures and diversions are in place.