A light aircraft crashed into Hanningfield Reservoir in Essex on Sunday afternoon, prompting police to declare a serious incident. According to police sources cited by The Sun, notes were found suggesting the pilot intended to take his own life. The unnamed pilot was flying a Beagle B121 Pup, having taken off from North Weald Airfield just before noon and believed to be heading toward Southend Airport. Investigators believe he was alone on board.

Flight data from FlightRadar24 shows the aircraft circled the reservoir multiple times before making a sudden descent of around 1,800 feet in seconds, with the final signal recorded shortly after 2pm. Emergency services responded quickly, and Essex Police confirmed they are working with the Air Accident Investigation Branch to establish what happened. The coroner has been informed, and the investigation remains ongoing. Members of the public have been asked to avoid the area while recovery and inquiries continue.

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