Following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Ron and Diane Hughes on the Gold Coast, their UK family has broken their silence.
According to 7 News, the couple had traveled to Australia to visit their daughter Jane and her husband Ben.
Ben and Jane Manns, the couple’s family, released a statement to 7 News, saying that they are devastated by the loss of their loved ones.
They asked that their privacy be respected at this time. In addition, several tributes have been posted online, including photos of Diane.
The Hughes’ family thanked the public for their support and said they were overwhelmed by the love they have received.
The couple from England were on their way to participate in a helicopter joy ride when the accident occurred.
They were in the helicopter that was flown by Ashley Jenkinson, who was an experienced pilot.
According to preliminary information, the two aircraft collided at an altitude of around 200 to 300 meters.
Jenkinson was heading to land when his plane was hit by the rotor blade of another helicopter.
The accident killed Jenkinson, Diane, and Ron Hughes. Vanessa Tadros, 36, a Sydney woman, was also killed in the crash.
Her son Nicholas, as well as her friend Winnie De Silva, were seriously injured.