Coroner Determines UK Veteran Unlawfully Killed in Ukraine

A coroner has determined that a former British serviceman, who traveled to Ukraine to participate in the conflict against Russia, was unlawfully killed by a “comrade.” During his inquest, it was revealed that Daniel Burke, from Manchester, who was supporting Ukrainian armed forces, met his death in August 2023, away from the combat zone, at the hands of an acquaintance. Zak Golombeck, the Manchester Area Coroner, stated that Mr Burke, aged 36, “died with bravery and valour and was sadly killed by cowardice and dishonour.” The court heard that the individual suspected of the killing, an Australian national, is currently sought by Ukrainian police, having departed the conflict-affected nation. Abdelfetah ‘Adam’ Nourine, a Ukrainian army combatant identified as “Jihadi Adam” — though not mentioned by name during the inquest but recognized by Greater Manchester Police — informed Ukrainian authorities that he unintentionally shot Mr Burke while they were conducting training exercises 27 miles (44 km) from the front. Mr Burke, a former paratrooper, had his remains discovered interred within an underground pipe at a military training facility in the Zaporizhzhia region. Mr Golombeck stated, “Whilst there was evidence initially presented that it was an accident, I reject that based on evidence gathered by Ukrainian authorities and Greater Manchester Police.” He added that “[Mr Burke] was unarmed and unable to defend himself.” Detective Sergeant Danielle Bullivant informed the proceedings that Mr Burke had established a firm named Dark Angels, comprising ex-military personnel who traveled to the frontline to assist in the evacuation of wounded individuals. It was revealed during the inquest that he had previously journeyed to Syria to combat the so-called Islamic State group, having been “heavily affected” by the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017. Diane Snaith, Mr Burke’s mother, conveyed to the BBC: “My heartache will always be there because Daniel’s gone and gone in, you know, such an awful manner that I’ll never, ever get over it. Never.” Det Sgt Bullivant reported that on 11 August, Mr Burke communicated with his family in the morning and intended to reach out to them via Facetime later that day. Surveillance footage depicted him spending the day alongside Mr Nourine, subsequently traveling to a disused training area in the late afternoon. The inquest was informed that during local police inquiries following Mr Burke’s disappearance, the suspect was questioned and provided conflicting accounts of the incident. He guided Ukrainian police to Mr Burke’s remains, stating that he had inadvertently caused his death during a training drill. He asserted that he had discharged his weapon at least twice – once unintentionally while transporting Mr Burke during a training exercise, and a second time for undisclosed reasons. A post-mortem examination revealed that Mr Burke sustained at least three gunshot wounds, to his head, lower neck, and central chest, the court was told. Det Sgt Bullivant informed the inquest that ballistics analyses conducted in Ukraine indicated that the assault rifle could not have been discharged accidentally. The BBC has learned that in February, Ukrainian police submitted a request for legal aid to the Australian Consulate, seeking assistance in bringing Mr Nourine in for additional interrogation. This formal request was channeled via the Ukrainian General Prosecutor’s Office. As of now, the BBC comprehends that no reply has been received regarding the Ukrainian request. Mrs Snaith remarked, “I don’t see why he [Mr Nourine] should have a normal life and just walk away and think it’s okay.” She further stated, “If he’s a trained soldier, he would not have let that gun fire. There is no way. And apparently, from what I’ve heard, it takes a lot to pull that trigger.” The BBC has reached out to Australian diplomatic officials in the UK for their comment. Further reporting was contributed by PA Media. For the finest content from BBC Radio Manchester, tune into Sounds, and connect with BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story suggestions can also be submitted to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk and through Whatsapp at 0808 100 2230. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the material found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external links is available for review.