Three dead after small plane crashes into paddock in Victoria's east

Three people have died after a small plane crashed into a paddock before catching fire in Victoria's East Gippsland region. Emergency services were called to Hayfield-Upper Maffra Rd at Tinamba West shortly before 6pm. Authorities said the aircraft was circling the area before it crashed and set on fire. The pilot and two passengers, who are yet to be formally identified, died at the scene. The three passengers were the only occupants on-board. Police will prepare a report for the coronor.