A young British couple and their pilot lost their lives in a tragic helicopter crash on the Greek island of Sifnos on Monday, according to local police. The newlyweds, identified as Alexander Cromie and Marie Ebert, were visiting Greece to celebrate their honeymoon when the private aircraft went down just metres away from a designated landing pad.
The Journey and Fatal Crash
Reports indicate that the couple had boarded the private helicopter from the village of Markopoulo, located near Athens, to travel to the popular holiday destination. A senior police official told reporters that the tragic accident occurred just moments before the helicopter was scheduled to touch down at 18:15 local time, corresponding to 16:15 GMT. Witnesses near the landing site reported hearing an unusual engine noise emanating from the aircraft right before the impact.
Rescue Operations and Scene Inspection
Sifnos Deputy Mayor Manolis Foundoulakis rushed to the site shortly after the incident, stating that there was virtually nothing left of the aircraft due to the intensity of the wreckage. Firefighters worked tirelessly to extinguish a fierce blaze that erupted following the crash, successfully putting out the flames by Monday evening. Emergency personnel and local residents assisted at the scene, where two victims were discovered trapped inside the wreckage while the third was found a short distance away.
Ongoing Investigations and Official Responses
Greece's aviation safety authority launched a formal investigation into the disaster, sending investigators to the scene on Tuesday to gather physical evidence and interview witnesses. A Foreign Office spokesperson released a statement expressing deep condolences, noting that consular support is actively being provided to the grieving families while maintaining close contact with Greek authorities.
Tributes From the Workplace
Asset management firm Blackstone, where Alexander Cromie was employed, issued a heartfelt statement following the tragedy. The firm expressed profound shock over the sudden loss of their colleague and his wife, emphasizing that Alex was deeply cherished by everyone who worked alongside him. The company extended its thoughts and prayers to the loved ones affected by the devastating accident.
