A tragic plane crash at London Southend Airport left four people dead on Sunday, prompting the airport’s closure. The 12-metre aircraft caught fire shortly before 16:00 BST, with Essex Police and emergency services rushing to the scene.

Zeusch Aviation confirmed its SUZ1 flight “was involved in an accident” and is cooperating with investigators. The plane had flown from Athens, stopped in Pula, Croatia, landed in Southend, and was set to return to the Netherlands.

Eyewitness John Johnson described the horrifying moment: “Within a few seconds, the aircraft almost inverted and hit the ground. There was a huge fireball.”

Multiple emergency crews, including four ambulances, a rapid response team, and air ambulance units, responded. Despite their efforts, all four onboard died. Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin said the victims are believed to be foreign nationals, though identities haven’t been confirmed.

The cause is still under investigation, and the airport remains closed as authorities gather information.