Army probe into Darwin soldier’s training death

THE Army will investigate the death of young Darwin soldier who died three days after collapsing during a physical training session in the Top End heat at Darwin’s Robertson Barracks

The army is investigating after a Darwin soldier died while participating in a PT session.

• Darwin’s 5th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment gets new Bengal tiger recruit
• 5RAR exercises its Freedom of Entry into Darwin with 50th anniversary march

THE Army will investigate the death of young Darwin soldier who died 17 days after collapsing during a physical training session in the Top End heat at Darwin’s East Point.

The death of the 20 year-old soldier from 5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment occurred on Thursday and Defence confirmed the death today.

The average daily temperature for Darwin during the past week has been 24.7C minimum to a maximum of 32C.

A Defence spokesman told the NT News that at the time of the incident, soldiers from his platoon administered first aid, and immediately called an ambulance.

“Paramedics responded and were on the scene treating the member within 15 minutes,” the Defence spokesman said.

“We extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends, and are providing ongoing welfare support at this difficult time.

“While Defence is investigating, the cause of death is yet to be determined by the coroner, therefore it is not appropriate for us to discuss the matter further at this time.

MORE NEWS

Barra farm targets dry season for start of $50m expansion

Street fight ends in arrests, after weapon pulled

NT Govt makes changes to its ban on cruise ships, industry says waste of time

“Out of respect for the family, Defence will not be releasing any further information regarding the soldier’s personal or service details.

“Media are asked to respect the privacy of the member’s family and fellow soldiers at this difficult time.”

However Army sources claim the 5RAR soldier died in hospital after being in a coma for following his collapse 17 days prior.

“He was 20-years-old and his family had to say goodbye to him,” the source, who asked not to be named has said.

HOT NEW DEAL: Read everything for 28 days for just $1

The source claimed the soldier had to do a PT session in extreme heat.

“He went down with exhaustion and has died,” another source said.

“In what world should this happen, to be forced to exercise to the point of death?”

The sources claimed after the soldier collapsed, at least 30 minutes passed before an ­ambulance was called, which has been disputed by Defence.