The coroner concluded that a young soldier, who committed suicide in Kabul last summer, did something unexpected and impulsive.
Private Joseph Berry died on February 22nd 2020 from an accidental gunshot injury while serving with “A” Company, 2nd Battalion Parachute Regiment Kabul.
Earlier that day, the 21-year-old, known as Joe, had received a telling off from his sergeant major after having broken weapons protocol that left him teary eyed, the inquest at Warrington Coroner’s Court heard.
He sent out a distressing text message shortly afterward to his colleagues, and also indicated the location of camp where he could find him.
Later that day, he was discovered dead next to his Glock 9mm gun. Both pathology and forensic experts determined the evidence supporting self-infliction.
Private had written a note to his family. Although it was not revealed at the hearing by his representatives, witnesses claimed that it showed his intentions to take his own life.
According to the inquest, it did not complain of bullying or any other ‘untoward happening from the Army side’.
Private Joseph Berry was 21 years old and served with the ‘A” Company, 2nd Battalion, Parachute Regiment, Kabul. He died on February 22, 2020. The private was discovered dead near his Glock 9mm pistol. Both pathology and forensic specialists concluded that he had died of a gunshot wound.
Pte. Berry was alleged to have had problems with his SA80 rifle earlier in the hearing.
For help with clearing a muzzle blockage on his weapon, he went to Lance Corporal Scott Goodenough’s base armoury. Others lent their assistance.
However, the armory was right next door to the Sergeant Major Christopher Groves office. Christopher Groves heard the commotion outside and began asking questions.
L/Cpl Goodenough stated that Pte. Berry was too honest and confessed to having broken Army rules. He had unloaded the weapon by himself and not in an area designated by Army orders.
Pte. Berry was taken into the office by Sgt. Major Groves, who closed the door.
L/Cpl. Goodenough stated that Pte. Berry came out of office “with his tail between the legs” and “looking a little sheepish”.
Hearing: Sgt. Major Groves said he talked to Pte. Berry, and because of his upset, said that “We all make mistakes”. He added that he would handle the matter later, and told him to go on with his duties.
Pte. Berry immediately sent Lance Corporal Josh Brown an SMS message detailing the location of his base. He also wrote: “Thanks for being such good friends.” It would have been so much easier if I could do everything better. Love you man.’
The scene was quickly occupied by Sgt. Major Groves and other officers. They called the medical officer and padre, but Pte. Berry had already died. He was clean of all alcohol and drug residues, and had never been in any welfare cases while in the forces.
British Army stated that Berry died due to a “non-battle injuries” and described Berry as a soldier with great potential who was optimistic, skilled, compassionate, and capable.
Pte Berry, his mother Lisa Snow had informed him the previous day that he was extremely happy and was planning for the future.
Nick Berry, RAF Squadron Leader, stated that his father had beaten him up and wondered if he missed any signs. But he said, ‘There wasn’t anything there.
Alan Moore, Cheshire Senior Coroner, responded: “Sometimes there aren’t.
Moore concluded the inquiry by saying: “It was so unexpected and impulsive.”
“Joe did not give any indications to anyone what he would do, or why.
“No one could have foreseen what would happen, and no one could have prevented it.”
“Not Joe’s mom and dad, or his mates from 2 Para, military chain of command, nor company sergeant major Groves.
Glock 17 9mm pistols have been serving with the British Army ever since 2013. Private Berry, who was carrying a Glock 17 9mm pistol with him in service since 2013, was found shot to death. He also had a note for his loved ones written in his notebook.
Lisa Snow said that her son wanted to be a Paras soldier since he was 14.
She stated that he loved it. He was living his dream. The Army was his hope and help.
Mark Smith, Private Berry’s older brother said that he would always do anything to make others happy. He was aware he wanted the Army and had always strived to be the best. This is why he joined paratroopers.
“He was even able to recover from pneumonia, and he passed his entire qualification despite spending weeks in bed.”
Berry was born in Crewe and raised there. He began his training with The Parachute Regiment Training Company on September 2017.
According to the British Army’s statement, Berry died from a non-battle injury. The private was described as an optimistic, competent, and compassionate soldier who had shown great promise.
Contact the Samaritans for help at free on 116123 or via email atjo@samaritans.org.