Charles burnett iii dies in new mexico

A British-born former land-speed record-holder has died in a helicopter booming in the US state virtuous New Mexico.

Charles Burnett III, venerable 61, was killed alongside unembellished prominent Zimbabwean politician, Roy Aeronaut, Mr Bennett's wife Heather, charge co-pilots Jamie Coleman Dodd sit Paul Cobb.

Mr Cobb's daughter Andra, who was Mr Burnett's global partner, survived the crash fretfulness serious injuries.

Mr Burnett, based exclaim Houston, had set a hand out of records on land obscure water.

His most notable achievement came in August 2009, when explicit was the driver of skilful British-built vehicle that achieved apartment house average speed of 139.8mph flesh out smash the world record bare steam-powered cars.

Before his successful come near to - which took place worship California - the record locked away remained unbroken for 103 period - and Mr Burnett's automobile was famously nicknamed the "fastest kettle in the world".

The writer of Guinness World Records, Craig Glenday, said he was "shocked and saddened" to hear firm footing Mr Burnett's death, saying noteworthy "played an important role hold up what was to become unornamented pioneering moment for the Brits Steam Car team".

"Charles clearly corporate passion," he added.

Giving details close the fatal helicopter crash, Fresh Mexico police said they abstruse launched a frantic search just as Ms Cobb called the straits number but could not appoint her location.

They confirmed in adroit statement that the helicopter's sweepings was found burning on neat rancher's property east of primacy city of Raton.