Army officer dies following live firing incident at Otterburn training area
Last updated 28th Jan 2026
An army officer has died following a live firing incident at Otterburn Training Area in Northumberland.
The Ministry of Defence said Captain Philip Gilbert Muldowney was an "immensely enthusiastic officer who embraced life with a vigour that inspired those around him".
The 25-year-old officer served as a Fire Support Commander within 129 (Dragon) Battery of the 4th Regiment Royal Artillery.
An Army spokesperson said: "The circumstances surrounding Capt Muldowney's death are being investigated, and it would be inappropriate to comment any further at this time."
Capt Muldowney joined the Army in January 2020, commissioning into the Royal Artillery in December that year, after attending the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
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Commanding Officer of 4th Regiment Royal Artillery, Lieutenant Colonel Henry Waller said: "It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Captain Philip Gilbert Muldowney.
"Known to all simply as Gilbert, he was an immensely enthusiastic officer who embraced life with a vigour that inspired everyone around him.
"Professionally, Gilbert was an outstanding officer who consistently put his soldiers first. He led from the front in all that he did, a quality that defined his character.
"His leadership, courage, and sense of duty earned him the respect and admiration of all who served alongside him."
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