Yes sadly it seems that it was a PA38 that is based here at Durham Tees - it is believed there was only 1 POB at the time of the accident. Unfortunately no news on any survivor being found yet and although we would like to think otherwise, I fear it is now unlikely that they will find anyone
The aircraft went down around 1615 just off the coast of Robin Hoods Bay, which is when the mayday was heard. There were many aircraft searching for the wreckage, which was found at 1739 by the Police helicopter from Newcastle. It would seem that the aircraft broke up on impact which suggests it wasn't a controlled (forced) landing into the water
A sad sad day for aviation in our area! Our thoughts are with the pilot and family!