Ex-British soldier Daniel Burke was unlawfully killed in Ukraine, coroner finds
The former paratrooper's family said they were "yearning for answers" after he was shot dead by a "comrade" during a mission to help those injured on the frontline.
Friday 13 December 2024 16:53, UK
A former British paratrooper was unlawfully killed in Ukraine by someone who claimed to be his friend, a coroner has concluded.
Daniel Burke died from multiple gunshot wounds last year after he went to Ukraine in 2022 to offer humanitarian support in the country's fight against Russia's invasion.
The 36-year-old, from the Wythenshawe area of Manchester, was staying in the Zaporizhzhia region in August 2023 when he went missing, Manchester Coroner's Court was told on Friday.
A "suspect", who was not named at the hearing but is known by Greater Manchester Police to be Abdelfetah Nourine - also known by the nickname "Jihadi Adam" - led Ukrainian authorities to his body in September last year and claimed he had shot him by accident.
Coroner Zak Golombek said: "Daniel was unlawfully killed by someone who purported to be his friend.
"He died with bravery and valour but was killed by cowardice and dishonour."
Ukrainian authorities investigating Mr Burke's death found he had been at a target practice away from the frontline with Mr Nourine, an Australian-Algerian dual national.
Mr Burke was not seen again and a few weeks later the missing persons investigation turned into a murder inquiry after Mr Nourine was questioned.
He claimed he had fired at least two shots - one accidentally while he was carrying Mr Burke and the second apparently out of mercy.
However, the coroner said he did not believe that versions of events, based on forensic tests and a post-mortem.
Mr Nourine has since fled Ukraine and his whereabouts are unknown.
Killed by a 'comrade'
Detective Sergeant Danielle Bullivant told the inquest that Mr Burke - who previously served in the Parachute Regiment - had set up Dark Angels, a group of military personnel who went to the frontline to evacuate the injured.
She confirmed the suspect, "Jihadi Adam", had been working with Mr Burke in Ukraine and they were "comrades".
The court heard a post-mortem examination found Mr Burke had been shot at least three times - in his head, lower neck and chest.
Ms Bullivant said results of ballistics investigations in Ukraine suggested it was impossible to accidentally fire the weapon, an AKS74U.
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'Still yearning for answers'
Greater Manchester Police read a statement on behalf of Mr Burke's family, who said they "have never and will never be the same" and are still "yearning for answers".
They added: "As a family, we cannot do this alone.
"We are hopeful that the Ukraine authorities will progress the investigation into Daniel's death, and we hope one day we will be able to say that we have justice for Daniel.
"Daniel had the most infectious smile and he loved making others laugh. This is how we will remember him and keep his memory alive."
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Detective Chief Superintendent Lewis Hughes said the force's "deepest condolences" were with Mr Burke's family and friends.
He added: "We hope that today's ruling of unlawful killing goes some way in reassuring Daniel's family and loved ones that this wasn't an accident.
"Daniel was killed and his family deserve answers."