Irish Soldier Dead Following Serious Incident In Lebanon

Thursday, 15 December 2022 08:48

By Caoimhe Harney

A second soldier has been seriously injured

An Irish soldier has been killed and a second seriously injured in a serious incident in Lebanon.

They were among 8 Irish personnel travelling in a convoy of armoured vehicles which came under attack.

23 year old Private Sean Rooney from County Donegal died after a convoy travelling to Beirut was attacked.

22 year old private Shane Kearney from Killeagh in County Cork was seriously injured.

A statement from the Defence Forces this morning outlines the tragic events which unfolded in Lebanon.

8 Irish soldiers were travelling to Beirut in convoy of two Armoured Utility Vehicles when they came under small arms fire just after 9 o'clock last night Irish time.

Four soldiers were rushed to Raee Hospital near Sidon.

One was pronounced dead on arrival, a second was rushed to surgery and is now in a serious condition.

The two others were treated for minor injuries, while the other 4 Irish soldiers were not injured and are safe and accounted for.

In a statement the Defence Minister says he learned of the death of the Irish soldier with 'profound sadness and a deep sense of shock'.

Simon Coveney 's expressed 'utmost sorrow' on behalf of the people of Ireland and says a full investigation must be carried out.

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