Essex Police have launched a criminal investigation into the deaths of two men killed in a light aircraft crash in High Ongar, a coroner has stated. The two-seat Cessna crashed into a field on 30 June during a 30-minute experience flight.
Pilot Dylan Patel, 26, and passenger Vamshi Mandala, 25, both died at the scene from multiple injuries, Essex Coroner's Court heard. Mr Mandala, an Indian student, had chartered the flight to celebrate finishing university.
Senior Coroner for Essex, Lincoln Brookes, said Essex Police had requested the suspension of inquest proceedings pending the outcome of their investigation. He warned families that inquiries could take a "considerable amount of time" to conclude.
The plane reportedly crashed near Mill Road eight minutes after taking off from North Weald Airfield, shortly before 12:30 BST.