Darwin dedication
Jack Fenton, 22, was killed when he was hit by a helicopter's tail rotor in Greece. The aircraft's two pilots and a ground crew member face charges of negligent homicide.
Mr Fenton had just exited the Bell 407, when he walked behind it while the engine was still running. The question facing investigators, is whether the necessary safety procedures were followed before passengers were allowed to disembark.
But it occurs to me—and I mean no disrespect to the deceased—that walking behind a helicopter while the rotor is still running, is a pretty foolish thing to do. I mean, does this really need to be pointed out to anyone with a modicum of common sense? Unless they're under the influence
, that is.
Mr Fenton had been a pupil at Sutton Valence School. One of the school's alumni, Sydney Wooderson, was an Olympian and world record holder for the mile. The school's sports centre is dedicated to him. Fenton could well be the school's first winner of the Darwin Award. I wonder what they'll dedicate in recognition, should he succeed.
Sutton Valence School doesn't have a helipad.