The quiet fields of Bentley, Doncaster, were shattered by tragedy on Thursday morning, October 30, 2025, when a helicopter crashed shortly after takeoff, claiming the life of Peter Smith, a 70-year-old grandfather remembered by his family as a "beloved husband, father and grandfather." The accident, which unfolded just after 10am, has left a community in mourning and prompted a thorough investigation by both South Yorkshire Police and the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB).
According to BBC News and other outlets, emergency services rushed to Ings Road, Bentley, after reports that a Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter had come down in a field. Despite the swift arrival of medical staff, Peter Smith suffered serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The pilot, a 41-year-old man, and two other passengers—a 58-year-old woman and a 10-year-old boy—were fortunate to escape with only minor injuries.
The helicopter, a four-seater light aircraft, had taken off from Gamston Airport near Retford just minutes before the crash. Flightradar24 data, cited by The Telegraph, indicated that the aircraft, bearing the registration G-CFNF, traveled north over Doncaster before plummeting to the ground at approximately 10:07am. Witnesses described a harrowing scene: Ken Melvin, a local resident, recounted, "There was no explosion. Nothing. I watched it come down. It just sort of fell out of the sky. I did not hear any engine noise, so I assume the engines had cut out."
The aftermath was sobering. A photograph from the scene revealed the helicopter on its side, its propeller detached, as investigators combed the wreckage for clues. Officers were called at 10:14am and joined by other emergency services and an air accident investigation team. The AAIB deployed a team of experts in aircraft operations, engineering, and recorded data to the site, determined to uncover what went wrong.
The aircraft was privately operated and believed to be owned by Kuki Helicopters, a Nottinghamshire-based company known for offering flying lessons and experiences. In a statement posted on Facebook and reported by multiple news organizations, Kuki Helicopters said, "At this very sad time all our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of all those involved in the helicopter incident which happened yesterday. Our heartfelt condolences are sent to everyone affected by this tragedy, and we will of course continue to support relevant agencies involved in the continuing investigation."
Peter Smith's family, devastated by the sudden loss, released a heartfelt tribute through South Yorkshire Police. They described him as "one of the smartest men who liked to spend his time making and fixing things. He had a real passion for aviation, and this was something he shared with his family." The statement continued, "He particularly liked to spend time with his grandchildren doing crafts and playing. He was a proud family man who spent a lot of his time with his son, both working with and socially. Peter loved to have meals out with his wife and had a particularly sweet tooth."
The family emphasized their support for the ongoing investigation and urged the public to refrain from speculation. "We understand that a parallel investigation is currently underway between the Air Accidents Investigation Branch and South Yorkshire Police, which we are supporting, and we ask members of the public to not speculate on the circumstances surrounding the accident. We would like to ask for privacy during this incredibly difficult time to allow us to come to terms with what has occurred and grieve for the loss of Peter."
The crash has prompted a joint investigation by South Yorkshire Police and the AAIB, with authorities appealing for anyone who witnessed the event or has footage of the helicopter prior to the crash to come forward. "We are keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the same time and saw the event unfold," said a spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police. "If you have information or footage, please get in touch."
The Robinson R44 Raven II, the model involved in the crash, is a popular four-seat helicopter widely used for private flights and flight training. According to The Independent, the same basic model was involved in a fatal crash on the Isle of Wight in August, which killed three people. While investigations are ongoing, the incident has reignited conversations around helicopter safety and the importance of rigorous maintenance and oversight for private aviation.
For those who knew Peter Smith, the loss is deeply personal. His family’s words paint a portrait of a man whose life was filled with curiosity, craftsmanship, and a profound love for those close to him. "Peter was a beloved husband, father and grandfather, and we are all devastated by this sudden loss," they said. "He particularly liked to spend time with his grandchildren doing crafts and playing. He was a proud family man who spent a lot of his time with his son, both working with and socially. Peter loved to have meals out with his wife and had a particularly sweet tooth."
The tragedy has also touched the wider aviation community. Kuki Helicopters, the aircraft’s operator, reiterated its commitment to supporting investigators and expressed condolences to all affected. The company, based at Retford Gamston Airport, has been cooperating fully with authorities as they seek to determine the cause of the accident.
As the investigation continues, the community in Bentley and beyond waits for answers. The crash site, now a somber reminder of the fragility of life, remains under the scrutiny of experts seeking to piece together the final moments of the flight. The AAIB’s work, alongside that of South Yorkshire Police, is expected to be thorough and meticulous, with safety at the forefront of their inquiry.
For now, the family of Peter Smith has asked for privacy as they grieve. Their tribute, echoed across news outlets from Sky News to GB News, is a poignant reminder of the man at the heart of the story—a man who found joy in flight, family, and the simple pleasures of life. The coming weeks will likely bring more details as investigators delve into the technical and human factors behind the crash, but for those closest to Peter Smith, the loss is immediate and profound.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact South Yorkshire Police, as the investigation seeks to provide clarity and, ultimately, closure for a family and community left in mourning.
