AN ARMY officer was critically injured during a night training incident in Co Cork on Wednesday.Lieut Kenneth Sheehan (29), from Cork city, underwent surgery at Cork University Hospital yesterday morning after suffering severe burns to his face, chest and right arm. His condition is described as critical but stable.
Lieut Sheehan was working as a safety umpire during a routine training operation at Kilworth Army firing range in north Cork when he suffered severe injuries as a result of a “back blast” from a short-range anti-armour weapon.
The cylindrical missile routinely emitted this blast of energy and heat once fired, an Army spokesman said. The soldier was standing at a firing point when the weapon was fired shortly before midnight on Wednesday.
He is expected to undergo further surgery for burn injuries.
A member of the Defence Forces since 2002, Lieut Sheehan is based at Collins Barracks, Cork. He is engaged to be married.
Acting chief of staff for the Defence Forces Maj Gen Pat O’Sullivan visited him in hospital yesterday. Minister for Defence Willie O’Dea made contact with Lieut Sheehan’s family last night to offer his support.
“This fine young man is in our thoughts and prayers,” he said.
Mr O’Dea added: “I have been advised by the chief of staff that the accident scene has been preserved and a full investigation into the incident is taking place.”