Two people died after an aircraft crashed into a field while on a "short flight experience" in Essex yesterday.
The two-seater Cessna crashed into Mill Lane in Ongar after it took off from North Weald airfield seven miles away, police confirmed.
The passengers on board died in the crash, although they are yet to be formally identified by officials.
Detective Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin, Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: "Yesterday lunchtime, Tuesday, June 30, a small aircraft took off from North Weald airfield on what was expected to be a short journey.
"The two-seat Cessna aircraft was carrying out a short flight experience but sadly it did not return."
At around 12.30pm, emergency services were contacted by members of the public with reports of a small aircraft crashing into the field.
"Sadly we can now confirm that the two people on board have died. Formal identification has yet to take place," the officer confirmed.
He continued: "Due to the nature of the incident this is likely to be a complex process and one which we will approach sensitively and compassionately.
"Their families will be supported and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.
"Our focus is to establish what happened and give the families the answers they need while ensuring they’re treated with dignity and respect.
"The investigation has continued overnight and our detectives and forensic teams are working at scene in parallel with the Air Accident Investigations Branch."
Police are working with the local fire service, the airfield and Epping Forest District Council to "build an accurate picture of what happened".
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They are also contacting those that reported the incident as well as those who "witnessed what may have been a distressing incident".
A police presence will be maintained at the scene while they carry out inquiries.
Mr Cronin appealed for any witnesses or those with footage to call 101 or to make a report online.
As emergency services rushed to the scene in the quiet town, a neighbour said: "There was a police car blocking off the road but nobody would tell us what happened. We couldn’t see the plane from where we are.
"It is a good job it didn’t hit any houses. There is North Weald airfield nearby but nothing has happened like this. We hope they managed to get out in time," they told the Metro.
Police will continue investigations over "the next few days".
One said amateur flying was a "big thing" around the area, adding: "It's heartbreaking to think people lost their lives. We have a close community around here, and there are a few airfields."
North Weald airfield caters to private aircraft, flight training schools, vintage warbird experience flights and emergency service helicopters.