The Princess of Wales has released an emotional statement after she was left “saddened” by the news of a tragic helicopter crash in Devon earlier this morning.The crash occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning in a field near Sourton Down.Emergency services rushed to the scene close to Okehampton, Devon and Cornwall Police said. Three service members of the Royal Navy have been confirmed to have been killed.Catherine, in her role as Commodore-in-Chief of the Fleet Air Arm, took to social media this afternoon to express her anguish at the accident.”I was so saddened to hear of the tragic loss of three service personnel from the Fleet Air Arm following a helicopter training exercise last night,” the princess wrote.”William and I hold their families and friends in our hearts at this very difficult time.”The message, which was put against a black background, was signed off with her signature “C”.GB News understands the Prince of Wales will be contacting the families of those who died directly in the coming days.The Princess of Wales has released a statement after she was left “saddened” by the news of the tragic helicopter crash | INSTAGRAM: THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALESIt is also understood King Charles has been made aware of the tragic incident and that His Majesty will personally write to the families.The Ministry of Defence announced the deaths this morning, stating: “It is with deep sadness that we can confirm three members of the Royal Navy have died during a helicopter training exercise on Wednesday 3 June near Sourton, Devon.”General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, the head of the Navy, expressed his profound sorrow at the fatal incident.”I know this will come as a huge shock to all in our Naval community,” he stated. “My deepest condolences go out to the families, friends and loved ones impacted by this tragedy.”Emergency services rushed to the scene close to Okehampton, Devon and Cornwall Police said | PA He also thanked Devon and Cornwall Police, alongside search and rescue teams, for their swift response.An investigation into the crash has been launched, with further details to follow in due course.The MoD added: “Our thoughts and sympathies are with their families and friends at this sad time.”Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer addressed the tragedy during Prime Minister’s Questions, recognising the despair facing those connected to the deceased personnel.”This will be a deeply worrying time for the families and more information will be set out as soon as possible,” he told the Commons.Defence Secretary John Healey described himself as “devastated” by the overnight loss.”I am devastated by the loss of three service personnel overnight,” Mr Healey said. “They served with excellence and will be much missed.”He extended his sympathies to the families, friends and colleagues of those who died, while also praising the rapid response of emergency services at the crash site.