A 70-year-old man who died following a helicopter crash in Bentley, Doncaster has been named by his family in a heartfelt tribute.

South Yorkshire Police arrived at the scene on Thursday 30 October at 10:14am, after reports of a helicopter crash in a field on Ings Road.

The man, now named as Paul Smith, suffered serious injuries in the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency services.

Also sustaining minor in the crash was the pilot, a 41-year-old man, and two other passengers, a 58-year-old woman and a 10-year-old boy.

Peter’s family have shared the following tribute: “Peter was a beloved husband, father and grandfather and we are all devastated by this sudden loss. Peter was one of the smartest men who liked to spend his time making and fixing things. He had a real passion for aviation, and this was something he shared with his family.

“He particularly liked to spend time with his grandchildren doing crafts and playing. He was a proud family man who spent a lot of his time with his son both working with and socially. Peter loved to have meals out with his wife and had a particularly sweet tooth.

“We understand that a parallel investigation is currently underway between The Air Accidents Investigation Branch and South Yorkshire Police which we are supporting, and we ask members of the public to not speculate on the circumstances surrounding the accident.

“We would like to ask for privacy during this incredibly difficult time to allow us to come to terms with what has occurred and grieve for the loss of Peter.”

Police are calling for anyone with information or footage of the helicopter leading up to the crash, to contact them on 101, quoting log 218 of 30 October 2025.

Alternatively you can report online here or submit footage that would aid the investigation here.