Thread: Soldier shot in shoulder during Tekapo live firing training exercise

Soldier shot in shoulder during Tekapo live firing training exercise

https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-...ining-exercise

An investigation will be launched after an army soldier suffered a gunshot wound to the shoulder in an accident during a live field firing training exercise at Tekapo Military Training Facility last night.

The private, a member of the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment’s 2nd 1st Battalion based at Burnham Military Camp, was taking part in a night live-firing exercise when the incident took place, the New Zealand Defence Force said in a statement released this afternoon.

He was treated by New Zealand Army medics at the scene, before being transported to Fairlie by a NZDF ambulance, from where he was airlifted to Christchurch Hospital.

The injured soldier is in a stable condition and is scheduled to undergo surgery, the statement said.

The soldier and his family are being supported by the New Zealand Army.

The live-firing component of the exercise was suspended immediately following the incident.

Strict rules govern live firing on ranges and careful contingency plans are in place, which were immediately carried out, the statement said.

The New Zealand Army takes its health and safety responsibilities seriously and an investigation into the incident will be launched, it said.