Helicopter crash inquest is adjourned

LEICESTER City owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha had “minimal opportunity” to escape from his helicopter when it crashed just yards from the club’s stadium, an inquest has heard.

The Thai billionaire and four other people died when the aircraft spun out of control and burst into flames on October 27.

Leicester Coroner’s Court was told that all five victims had been scientifically identified and were seen on CCTV in the tunnel at the King Power Stadium shortly before the helicopter took off.

Giving evidence at the opening of the inquest, Detective Chief Superintendent David Sandall said there was minimal chance for anybody else to have got in or out of the AW169 helicopter, made by Yeovil-based Leon- ardo, in the moments before the crash. He confirmed the victims were Mr Srivaddhanaprabha, Nusara Suknamai, Kaveporn Punpare, Eric Swaffer and Izabela Lechowicz.

Mr Sandall said: “Mobile phone footage showed the helicopter spinning out of control before descending to the crash site.

“There was minimal opportunity for anyone to get in or out of the helicopter at that time.”

Mr Sandall added: “The investigation is ongoing into the cause of the crash.”

Adjourning, Leicester Coroner Catherine Mason said: “You have detailed to me that the final cause of death is pending subject to tests. Therefore I am not in a position to continue with the inquest at this time.”