Leicester City issue statement after club owner’s helicopter crashes outside stadium explodes into flames

The helicopter of Leicester owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha has crashed outside the King Power Stadium following the Premier League game against West Ham.

The incident occurred in the club’s car park, where police cars and emergency services rushed towards an area where flames were clearly visible before the area was evacuated.

Leicestershire Police said: “We are dealing with an incident in the vicinity of the King Power Stadium. Emergency services are aware and dealing.”

Srivaddhanaprabha leaves the stadium by his helicopter, which lands in the centre circle on the pitch, after every Leicester home game.

Srivaddhanaprabha, who owns the King Power company, bought Leicester in 2010 and became chairman the following February.

Leicestershire Police confirmed emergency services were dealing with an incident near the King Power Stadium, but have not provided any further details.

One witness told Sky News: “I hope they’re okay. Doesn’t seem like they have had much of a chance. Just burst into flames.”

East Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust tweeted: “We are also in attendance and will update when possible.”

Witnesses told Sky Sports News the helicopter took off from the pitch but lost control within a few seconds and crashed the club’s staff car park.

One fan told Sky News the owner and his family have done so much for the club.

He said: “They have conducted themselves so well, they have put everything into us. They have made us champions. You cannot ask for more from your owners.”

It is not known who was in the helicopter when it crashed nor what conditions they are in. It is also not clear whether anyone on the ground was affected.

Leicester City footballers Jamie Vardy and Harry Maguire both tweeted praying hands emojis.

Press Association