Army officer dies after training exercise in Northumberland
The Ministry of Defence says the circumstances are under investigation
Captain Philip Gilbert Muldowney, a 25-year-old serving officer with the British Army, has died following a live firing training exercise at Otterburn Training Area in Northumberland.
The incident took place on Sunday, and the Ministry of Defence has confirmed an investigation is underway. Otterburn is one of the UK's largest Army training ranges.
Capt Muldowney was a Fire Support Commander within 129 (Dragon) Battery of the 4th Regiment Royal Artillery. According to an Army spokesperson, commenting further on the circumstances at this time would be inappropriate.
Lieutenant Colonel Henry Waller, Commanding Officer of the 4th Regiment Royal Artillery, described Capt Muldowney as "an outstanding officer who consistently put his soldiers first" and as "a rising star within the Army and the Regiment."
Capt Waller said: “Known to all simply as Gilbert, he embraced life with a vigour that inspired everyone around him. Friends and colleagues will remember Gilbert for his easy-going nature, boundless energy, and infectious sense of humour. His leadership, courage, and sense of duty earned him the respect and admiration of all who served alongside him.”
He added: "Gilbert was an unforgettable character. His loss is deeply felt by his comrades and friends, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this most difficult time."
Capt Muldowney joined the Army on 5th January 2020 and was commissioned into the Royal Artillery on 11th December 2020, after training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
Captain Helen Brackenbury shared her condolences, saying: “Gilbert was a truly kind person, highly competent, and endearingly joyful. Every day he displayed a level of spirit I continue to be in awe of. It has been the pleasure of my career to have served alongside him, and I consider myself very lucky to have been his friend.”
The Ministry of Defence has reiterated that investigations into Capt Muldowney's death are ongoing.