Royal Marine is killed in ambush
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A Royal Marine has been shot dead after his patrol was ambushed in Helmand Province, southern Afghanistan.
The Ministry of Defence said the Royal Marine, from 42 Commando, was shot in the Khorgajat area of the Nahr-e Saraj district yesterday.
Task Force Helmand spokesman Major Rolf Kurth said: "The Royal Marine was part of a foot patrol in support of the Afghan National Army, when they came under small arms fire. He died as a result of a gunshot wound sustained in the ambush. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends in their time of grief."
A Ministry of Defence spokesman said the Marine was shot at "close range".
He added: "Despite the best efforts of the medics on the ground and extraction by helicopter, he was pronounced dead on arrival at Camp Bastion Role 3 Hospital."
The family of the serviceman - who is expected to be named today - has been told.
The killing takes the number of British troops who have died since operations in Afghanistan began in 2001 to 382.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments