A coroner has determined that former British paratrooper Daniel Burke was unlawfully killed in Ukraine by someone he considered a friend.
Burke, 36, died from multiple gunshot wounds while volunteering to provide humanitarian aid during the ongoing conflict following Russia’s invasion. His family expressed a desire for answers regarding his untimely death after he went missing in August 2023 while in the Zaporizhzhia region.
At the inquest held at Manchester Coroner’s Court, it was revealed that Burke had been with Abdelfetah Nourine, also known as “Jihadi Adam,” when he was shot. Nourine led Ukrainian authorities to Burke’s body in September, claiming it was accidental. However, Coroner Zak Golombek stated, “Daniel was unlawfully killed by someone who purported to be his friend,” emphasizing that he died with “bravery and valour” but was betrayed by “cowardice and dishonour.”
Investigators established that Burke and Nourine had been engaging in target practice away from the frontline. After Burke went missing, the investigation escalated from a missing persons case to a murder inquiry following questioning of Nourine. He claimed he fired two shots—one accidentally while carrying Burke and a second out of mercy. The coroner dismissed these assertions based on forensic analysis and autopsy findings.
Detective Sergeant Danielle Bullivant testified that Burke, who previously served in the Parachute Regiment, had founded Dark Angels, a group of military personnel dedicated to evacuating the injured. The court heard that Burke had been shot at least three times—in the head, lower neck, and chest—during the incident. Ballistic tests indicated that it would have been impossible to accidentally discharge an AKS74U weapon.
Burke’s family, represented by Greater Manchester Police, stated they “have never and will never be the same” and remain “yearning for answers.” They expressed hope that Ukrainian authorities would continue investigating Daniel’s death, adding, “We hope one day we will be able to say that we have justice for Daniel.”
Detective Chief Superintendent Lewis Hughes extended condolences to Burke’s family and friends, stressing that the ruling of unlawful killing provides some reassurance that this was not an accident, while emphasizing that Burke’s family deserves answers.
Credit: SKY News
