Murder probe at Army barracks after soldier, 32, found dead

The 32-year-old victim was a member of the 1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment, the Ministry of Defence said.

West Mercia Police said a murder inquiry was launched after the soldier was found dead at Clive Barracks in Tern Hill, Shropshire, at about 9am on Saturday. A 23-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Detective inspector Steve Tonks, of West Mercia Police, said: “We have made an arrest in connection with the death.

“The investigation is in its early stages and extensive inquiries are continuing.

“A post mortem conducted by a Home Office pathologist was held yesterday and further examination and tests are being carried out to help establish the cause of death.”

He also made an appeal to the public for further information and urged anyone who could assist the inquiry to contact Shrewsbury CID.

Police said the coroner for Shropshire had been informed.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Defence said: “We can confirm the victim was someone from the 1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment and we are assisting West Mercia Police with their inquiries.

“Our thoughts are with the family, but it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.”