Irish Soldier Killed In A Parachuting Incident In Spain Named As Kildare Man

Monday, 13 February 2023 08:45

By Caoimhe Harney

The soldier (50s) was not on active duty at the time of the incident

The Irish soldier killed in a parachuting incident in Spain has been named locally as Declan "Doc" O'Connell.

The Company Sergeant, who was in his 50s and from Newbridge, was not on active duty when he died in the incident yesterday.

The Sarsfield man was due to get married in the coming weeks, and Kfm understands his Stag party was due to take place this coming weekend.

The 54 year old was taking a civilian parachute instructors' course in Seville yesterday morning when the incident occurred.

Police in Spain have launched an investigation into the death of the acting sergeant.

No further details of how he lost his life have been released.

The Department of Foreign Affairs says it's aware of the case and is ready to provide consular assistance to his family.

Spanish Correspondent with The Independent, Graham Keeley says tributes have been paid to Mr. O'Connell, who served in the Defence Forces for decades:

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