British newlyweds Alexander Cromie and Marie Ebert died in a Greek helicopter crash during their honeymoon.
Alexander Cromie and Marie Ebert died in a helicopter crash on the island of Sifnos, Greece, on Monday, Aug. 17. The British nationals were on their honeymoon when their private helicopter ignited into a fireball and crashed into a field in the Tholos area minutes before its scheduled landing. The aircraft was piloted by 55-year-old Hellenic Army veteran Giorgos Raikos. Witnesses reported a bizarre engine noise just before the crash, and aviation safety officials have opened an investigation into the cause. Authorities are currently examining flight records and weather conditions to be determine if mechanical failure was the primary factor. The U.K. Foreign Office is cooperating with Greek authorities to support the families of the deceased. The crash occurred under normal weather conditions, with the pilot informing air traffic control of his intent to land shortly before the aircraft fell to the ground.