Police have named the three people who tragically died in a helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight yesterday (Monday, 25 August).
Victims Named
The victims have been confirmed as:
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Justyna Czoska, 52, from Bloxham, Oxfordshire
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Wojtek (Wojciech) Kowalkowski, 49, her partner
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Simon Hewitt, 54, from Barton-upon-Humber
The trio were killed when the aircraft spiralled out of control and came down in a field near the A3020 Shanklin Road at around 9.24am. A fourth man in his 30s survived and remains in hospital in a stable condition.
Family Tributes
Justyna’s daughters described her as “beautiful, funny, talkative, optimistic and kind – always wanting to make those around her happy. She was our best friend. The memories with her will last a lifetime.”
Her daughter, Julia Buzar, revealed the flight had been a surprise birthday gift for her stepfather Wojtek. She wrote online: “I have no words, the world took my mum too soon… loved by everyone. Please, if anyone could help bring them back to Poland so they can be with their families, it would mean the world to me.”
Wojtek’s family said he was “the father of two loving children” and a “heart-filled person” who will be deeply missed. A work colleague described him as “a genuine gentleman, sincere, caring and an all-around decent man.”
Simon Hewitt’s partner said: “Simon was the most wonderful, intelligent, kind man and father. He brought so much joy and light into our lives. We are absolutely broken.”
Investigation Underway
Police declared a major incident shortly after the crash. Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary confirmed:
“We can confirm that three people have died following a helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight. Four people were on board, one remains in hospital in a serious condition.”
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has deployed a specialist team to examine the wreckage and establish the cause of the crash.
Flight records show the helicopter had taken off from Sandown Airport just minutes before the crash. It is believed to have been operating as part of a private flying lesson.
Local Reaction
Witnesses reported seeing the helicopter “spiralling” before crashing into a hedge. One said it was “incredible” that no vehicles on the busy Bank Holiday road were struck.
Joe Robertson, MP for Isle of Wight East, called the tragedy “heartbreaking”, adding: “What should have been a fun morning out turned to tragedy.”
