On October 27, 2018, a tragic helicopter crash outside the King Power Stadium in Leicester claimed the lives of Leicester City FC owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha and four others. The Leonardo AW169 helicopter took off at 8:37 pm, only to nosedive and spin out of control shortly thereafter. An inquest into the accident has confirmed that mechanical failure led to the crash, and the jury ruled the deaths as accidental. This incident marked the largest fatal accident claim in English history, underscoring the profound impact on the victims' families and the football community.
Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, a beloved figure in Leicester, perished alongside pilot Eric Swaffer, his girlfriend Izabela Roza Lechowicz, and two staff members, Nursara Suknamai and Kaveporn Punpare. The helicopter burst into flames upon crashing, preventing immediate rescue efforts. Police officers at the scene attempted to smash the windscreen but found it impenetrable due to its durable design intended to withstand high-speed bird strikes.
Jon Rudkin, Leicester City's director of football, witnessed the helicopter's takeoff. He recalled seeing the chairman wave and give a thumbs-up before the aircraft began its fateful journey. Rudkin described his initial reaction, stating, "As soon as it went on that first full circle, I thought this was strange." The aircraft then started to nosedive away from the stadium while still rotating in the air.
Eric Swaffer, the pilot, made every effort to avert disaster. According to Mark Jarvis, principal inspector for the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB), Swaffer did everything possible to avoid the crash. Tragically, Swaffer's last words were cries for help as he found himself trapped in the burning wreckage.
"Get me out of here, help me." – Eric Swaffer
The loss of Izabela Roza Lechowicz was deeply felt by her family. Her sister, Kate Lechowicz, remembered her as an extraordinary individual with a zest for life.
"He was great company. He had profound love for aviation, technology, travel, his motorbike and life in general." – Kate Lechowicz
Viroj Suknamai spoke of his sister Nursara Suknamai's vibrant personality and her role as the family's breadwinner.
"She was a lively person, she was the breadwinner of the family." – Viroj Suknamai
The emotional and financial toll of her loss has been significant for the family.
"She was the one who looked after the family and after she passed away we have had difficulties financially." – Viroj Suknamai
The inquest revealed that Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha's family has launched a £2.15 billion lawsuit against Leonardo SpA, the manufacturer of the ill-fated helicopter. Khun Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha expressed his frustration over the safety of the aircraft.
"It wasn't safe. It was a death trap." – Khun Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha
Relatives of Khun Vichai fondly remembered him for his many admirable qualities.
"a great inspiration to us all" – Relatives of Khun Vichai
"We all loved him very much." – Relatives of Khun Vichai
"He was adored by everyone for his kind spirit, generosity, charm, sense of humour and intellect." – Relatives of Khun Vichai
The accident has left a lasting impact on Leicester City FC and its supporters. Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha's leadership and generosity played a pivotal role in Leicester City's historic Premier League victory in 2016. His passing marked a significant loss not only for his family but also for the football world.
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