Safety and training failures led to death of Army officer in reversing Warrior incident, coroner says

A series of safety and training failures contributed to the death of a British Army officer during a training exercise on Salisbury Plain in 2022, a coroner has found.

Second Lieutenant Max George, 26, was attempting to exit a Warrior when the student commander of the tracked vehicle ordered the driver to reverse at speed. 2Lt George was knocked to the ground and killed.

Responding to the coroner's verdict, the Head of the Army Safety Group, Brigadier Giles Malec, said the Army would "look to rectify any additional failures identified".

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Several safety failings

A Service Inquiry conducted into the incident in 2024 previously concluded that a vital emergency alarm on the Warrior was not working when 2Lt George was attempting to exit, and had it been functional it was "almost certain that the accident would not have occurred".

The Army accepted all 48 recommendations of the Service Inquiry including improved safety measures for the Warrior's rear exit.

The coroner also identified the alarm failure as a contributory factor, noting it was faulty due to a lack of an "effective maintenance regime".

2Lt George had been travelling in a command variant of the Warrior rather than the standard Warrior infantry fighting vehicle.

Several further failures were also identified including the use of the command Warrior to debus troops when it is not designed for that purpose, "flawed" training of the student commander and insufficient vehicles and personnel available for the exercise.

2Lt George's death was ultimately ruled an accident.

A highly respected and talented officer 

During the inquest, 2Lt George's family described him as a caring and devoted son and brother who had shown exceptional leadership potential during his short Army career.

Several senior officers had told the family that it was unusual for a young officer to have established such a reputation so early in his career, his mother added.

"Max had effortless leadership qualities, and he truly was a star.

"His potential was enormous, and he was an exceptionally talented, yet humble man.

"Max's soldiers so dearly adored him, which is testament to his fine character and natural flair."

Victoria Neale, of Pepperells Solicitors, which represented the family, said the inquest had provided the family with important answers about his death and identified "many faults and failings" that contributed to the tragedy.

"The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that changes have since been made in response to the findings of its investigations," Ms Neale said.

"Whilst nothing can undo the family's loss, it is hoped that these measures, if implemented and adhered to, will reduce the risk of a similar tragedy occurring in the future."

MOD response in full

Brig Malec said: "First and foremost, our thoughts and sympathies remain with Second Lieutenant Max George's family and friends at this very sad and difficult time.

"Max served his country with pride and is sorely missed by his loved ones and military colleagues.

"We recognise the seriousness of the failures which led to Max's tragic death and remain committed to ensuring that the lessons identified are properly embedded, that risks are reduced, and outstanding recommendations continue to be progressed.

"We thank Max's family for their composure and strength during this process, and we acknowledge the professionalism of all those involved in examining the circumstances surrounding Max's death.

"We respect the coroner's conclusion and will look to rectify any additional failures identified.

"Max's service will not be forgotten, and we owe it to his memory, to his loved ones, and to all who serve to ensure the failures identified by this inquest are not repeated.

"The Army continues to extend its sincere condolences to all those affected by his death."