Soldiers die as shell blows up tank during ‘live fire’ training
TWO soldiers have been killed and two others injured after a shell exploded in their tank during a “live fire” exercise.
The tragedy came at a range in Castlemartin, South Wales.
Speaking before the second soldier died, Minister for People and Veterans, Tobias Ellwood, said: “It is with deep sadness that I can confirm the death of a soldier from the Royal Tank Regiment. His next of kin were by his bedside. Three other soldiers have been wounded.” The extent of survivors’ injuries was unknown last night, and no victims had been named. It is believed the round blew up in the turret of their Challenger 2. Castlemartin is the only range in Britain used for live fire training. In 2012, Ranger Michael Maguire, 21, died when he was hit by a bullet fired in the wrong direction. An inquest ruled he had been unlawfully killed.