British soldier killed at Kent training ground

Officers are investigating the fatal shooting of Fusilier Griffiths of the 1st Battalion The Royal Welsh, at a Ministry of Defence training ground in Lydd, Romney Marsh. Police were alerted to the incident at around 2.45pm yesterday.

Fusilier Griffiths from Market Drayton in Shropshire had been due to become a parent. His brother, Dewi Griffiths, said “Dean was fun, loving and caring and was so excited at becoming a father. He touched the lives of so many and we will all miss our Deano.”

His Commanding Officer, Lt Col Stephen Webb MC, described the dead man as an “outstanding soldier”, adding: “He was also a thoroughly engaging person – popular and with a great sense of humour.”

A police spokeswoman said “Kent Police is working closely with the army and the Health and Safety Executive”.

The MoD confirmed that it is investigating the incident.

An army spokesman said: “It is with regret that we can confirm that, on September 14, 2011, a 21-year-old soldier died at Lydd Ranges in Kent.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time. The matter is subject to a civil police investigation.”

The Lydd ranges are located 15 miles south of Ashford on the historic Romney Marsh, which is estimated to be between 3,000 and 5,000 years old.

A danger area used for live firing, extends out to the sea. Red flags are raised when firing excercises are taking place and access is banned along the foreshore and Galloway’s Road.

The death follows that of 20-year-old soldier, Ian Wright, who was shot during an excercise at Lydd ranges in November 2006. He was killed by a single gunshot wound to the head.