Tragic Air Crash Claims Life of Peter Beeson, 66

Peter Beeson, 66, from Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, has died in a fatal plane crash at Hanningfield Reservoir. Essex Police confirmed that the Beagle B121 Pup he was flying crashed on December 28. A postmortem on January 7 confirmed Mr Beeson was the only person on board.

Private Plane Dives Into Reservoir After Takeoff

Mr Beeson’s private plane left North Weald Airfield just before midday but plunged into Hanningfield Reservoir near Chelmsford around 2pm. The shocking crash triggered a huge emergency response involving Essex Police, the Metropolitan Police, and the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB).

Heartbreak as Divers Recover Pilot’s Body

Detective Inspector Lydia George, leading the investigation, said:

“Our thoughts remain with family and friends, and I offer my condolences. At the end of last year, we conducted an extensive search with emergency partners and specialists following notification of the crash.”

“Sadly, divers from the Metropolitan Police recovered Mr Beeson’s body. I thank all partners, including Essex and Suffolk Water, for their assistance.”

Probe Ongoing But No Foul Play Suspected

Police are continuing inquiries but have found no evidence of suspicious circumstances. A full report will be sent to the coroner as the investigation proceeds.

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