USAF Lakenheath pilot who died in crash at sea named

The RAF Lakenheath pilot who died after his fighter jet crashed into the North Sea has been named.

First Lt. Kenneth Allen, assistant chief of weapons and tactics for the 493rd Fighter Squadron, was killed when his F-15C Eagle went down at about 9.40am yesterday (June 15).

It crashed 74 nautical miles off Flamborough Head on the Yorkshire coast.

Lt Allen arrived at the 48th Fighter Wing, RAF Lakenheath, in February 2020, and is survived by his wife and parents.

Col Will Marshall, 48th Fighter Wing commander, said: "We are deeply saddened by the loss of Lt. Allen, and mourn with his family and his fellow Reapers in the 493rd Fighter Squadron.

"The tremendous outpouring of love and support from our communities has been a ray of light in this time of darkness."

Last night, Matt Hancock, West Suffolk MP, said: “This accident is a terrible tragedy and I am desperately sorry to learn of the pilot's death.

"I pay tribute to this brave airman who served his country and to the search and recover personnel that were deployed to the scene.

"Having flown with 48th fighter wing, I know what a community it is, and I know what a blow this will be to the community in Lakenheath, military colleagues, and of course the pilot’s family.

"On behalf of all residents of West Suffolk, I want to thank every member of USAF based locally for their service and their sacrifice in defence of our freedom, which we value so highly.

"My thoughts are with you all."

Lakenheath pilot found dead in sea