Family Describes ‘Violent’ Death of Woman After Helicopter Incident

Relatives of a woman who passed away following an event involving a helicopter’s descent at a hospital in Devon stated that the “violent manner of her death [has] affected us all”. Jean Langan, aged 87, succumbed to her injuries subsequent to being “blown over” by “downwash”—defined as a rapid change in air—originating from a coastguard helicopter. The helicopter was in the process of landing at the helipad located at Derriford Hospital on March 4, 2022, as revealed on Monday during an inquest into her passing conducted at Exeter Coroner’s Court. Pathologist Dr. Amanda Jeffery informed the court that Mrs. Langan’s fatal injury was a head injury “caused by falling backwards and striking the ground.” On the day of the occurrence, Mrs. Langan had attended an audiology appointment. Ian Arrow, a retired senior coroner, presented CCTV footage of the event to an 11-person jury at Exeter’s County Hall. The footage depicted the car park adjacent to the helipad, with Mrs. Langan and her niece seen walking in the vicinity. The coastguard helicopter, transporting a patient, was observed descending onto the helipad. The jury witnessed both individuals being propelled to the ground, followed by members of the public rushing to assist them. Dr. Jeffery stated that Mrs. Langan passed away approximately three hours subsequent to her fall. Her examination revealed that the 87-year-old had sustained bleeding on the brain, in addition to a “tear” at the rear of her scalp. Furthermore, she noted the presence of bruising on the brain and a skull fracture. Mr. Arrow mentioned that the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) had conducted an inquiry into the occurrence. He explained that the court would not receive testimony from individual witnesses, including the pilots, because the AAIB had previously addressed these aspects. In a statement, Mrs. Langan’s family described her as “always on the go” and someone who “helped others.” They further noted that she was a “keen walker” and appreciated nature. They conveyed that the circumstances of her death had “affected us immensely.” The ongoing inquest, scheduled to proceed throughout the week, is still in session.