soldier killed in iraq 'shot himself'

What a tragedy, you can't help but feel for his family but also his comrades!

Soldier killed in Iraq 'shot himself'
Date: 22/04/06

Defence Minister Brendan Nelson says the Australian soldier killed in Iraq had accidentally shot himself while maintaining his gun.

Dr Nelson said the soldier was "highly regarded by his colleagues, he was highly regarded by his commanding officer, and was seen as one of the most outstanding soldiers who served in the security detachment.

"He had particularly good rifle skills," Dr Nelson also said.

Dr Nelson on Saturday ruled out suicide for the death, and said the soldier's body would be returned to Australia within about two days.

A military and coronial inquest would also be staged, Dr Nelson told reporters in Melbourne.

"The soldier was simply handling his weapon and maintaining his weapon as soldiers are required to do, and for some unexplained reason the firearm discharged and the bullet unfortunately entered the soldier's head.

"Several hours after the injury, despite receiving the best of medical care, he unfortunately passed away."

Dr Nelson said army officials had made contact with the man's family, which includes a wife and child. The soldier is understood to have family based in Victoria.

He said no further information about the soldier would be released at this stage, at the family's request.

Dr Nelson also said the shooting incident did not involve a confrontation with enemy forces.

He described the man's death as a tragedy, but also said it was a risk faced by Australia's troops who had served in Iraq.