An Australian Army soldier has died in the Northern Territory after becoming wounded in a live fire training exercise.
The Department of Defence issued a statement this afternoon confirming that the man was killed at around 12.45pm local time in the Mount Bundey Training Area near Darwin.
The soldier was taking part in a “routine training exercise” when he was injured. He received first aid at the site and was taken to the Royal Darwin Hospital where was later declared deceased.
The department says they have suspended training activities and will be launching an investigation into what happened, NT Police will also be looking into the incident:
“The Army and ADF community extends its deepest sympathies to the soldier’s family and friends. It is a deep shock to the organisation and will be felt by the broader Army family.“The Chief of Army and Army commanders acknowledge the gravity of this and recent incidents and take all matters relating to personnel and training very seriously.“As such, Army has instigated a suspension of training activities across its combat brigades to review risk assessment processes and training safety management.“Defence will not be releasing any information relating to the soldier’s personal or service history at this time.“Northern Territory Police are investigating the incident and will prepare a report for the Northern Territory Coroner. The ADF are assisting police in their inquiries.”
The identity of the soldier is unknown at this time.
Source: Department of Defence.
Photo: Getty Images / Ian Hitchcock.
