Dylan Patel named as pilot in fatal Essex plane crash under criminal investigation

A 26-year-old man from Southall has been named as the pilot of the small aircraft that crashed in Essex last month, killing both people on board. Dylan Patel was flying a two-seat Cessna that came down in a field off Mill Lane, Ongar, on 30 June 2026. The second victim was Vamshi Mandala, 25, from India.

Criminal investigation opened

Essex Police confirmed on 13 August that a criminal investigation has been launched into the fatal crash. The force is working in parallel with the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) to determine the cause of the incident. Detective Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin said the investigation aims to provide answers to the families of the victims.

The aircraft had taken off from North Weald airfield, approximately seven miles from the crash site. Essex Police stated the flight was part of a "short flight experience" with only Patel and Mandala on board. The senior coroner for Essex, Lincoln Brookes, suspended the inquest at Chelmsford County Hall pending the outcome of the criminal investigation.

Post-mortem findings

Provisional post-mortem examinations, conducted by the coroner’s office, found that both men died from multiple injuries. Toxicology results are still pending. Coroner’s officer Deborah Wallace told the hearing that Patel was the pilot at the time of the crash, which she described as "unexpected".

Essex Police published photographs of both victims following the hearing. Detective Chief Superintendent Cronin said the formal identification process had been complex and carried out with sensitivity. He thanked emergency responders and investigators for their work in maintaining the dignity of the victims.

What happens next

The inquest has been adjourned indefinitely while the criminal investigation proceeds. No date has been set for its resumption. Essex Police have not disclosed any details about potential charges or suspects. The AAIB will continue its technical investigation into the crash, though its findings may be shared with the police inquiry.