Relatives Instruct Military Lawyers To Help Establish Answers At Inquest

The family of a British soldier who died while on deployment in Eastern Europe have spoken ahead of an inquest into his death. 

Corporal Ryan Lovatt, aged 25, of 2 Close Support Battalion of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers fell from a seventh floor balcony at a hotel in Poland. At the time, he had been deployed to participate in diplomatic services with the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards as part of Operation Cabrit. He died following his injuries. 

Ryan Lovatt's family ask military lawyers to help establish answers

Following his death, in August 2019, Ryan’s family, of Glasgow, instructed specialist military accident lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to help and support them through an upcoming inquest, where they hope to find answers regarding the incident surrounding his death. 

Ryan’s family have now spoken of their loss. 

Relatives 'devastated' by corporal's death in Poland

In a statement released via their legal team at Irwin Mitchell Ryan’s family, said “We’re devastated by the loss of our son Ryan. We never would’ve expected for him to be hurt on a deployment like this. 

“It took well over a year before we received any documentation from the Ministry of Defence surrounding his death. As a family we have many questions surrounding the circumstances of Ryan’s death and hope that the inquest will provide us with answers.” 

Expert Opinion

“This is a difficult time for Ryan’s family in which they’re still processing the circumstances of his death. While it’s vital the most thorough investigation takes place, not knowing all of the reasons surrounding Ryan’s death has been incredibly difficult.

“We’re continuing to support Ryan’s family and are determined to provide them with the answers that they deserve.

“If during the course of the inquest issues surrounding Ryan’s death are identified it’s vital that lessons are learned to improve safety of service personnel.” Stephanie Clark - Associate Solicitor

The inquest is due to take place on Wednesday, 23 June, at Oxfordshire Coroner’s Court, County Hall, Oxford. 

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