A man who died in a crash at Weeting, near Brandon, after the car he was driving hit a tree, was a member of the United States Air Force based at RAF Lakenheath.

The airman, who was in his 20s and assigned to the 748th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, was killed yesterday.

The crash happened on the B1106 Lynn Road at about 6.40am when a BMW 323 convertible travelling towards Weeting left the carriageway and collided with a tree.

The airman was pronounced dead at the scene.

Col Evan Pettus, 48th Fighter Wing commander, from RAF Lakenheath said: “The Liberty Wing mourns the passing of one of its own today.

“When a tragedy like this strikes, it’s felt throughout our entire community. Our sympathies and prayers are with this airman’s friends, family and fellow wingmen in the 748th AMXS.”

The road was closed while emergency services dealt with the incident and it was re-opened shortly after 12.40pm.

Police officers at the Serious Collision Investigation Team are keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the collision or has information concerning the driving manner of the BMW prior to the crash.

Anyone with information should contact the Serious Collision Investigation Team at Wymondham on 101.