A former British paratrooper was unlawfully killed in Ukraine by someone who claimed to be his friend, a coroner has concluded.
Daniel Burke died from multiple gunshot wounds last year, after he went to Ukraine in 2022 to offer humanitarian support in their fight against Russia’s invasion.
The 36-year-old, from Manchester, was staying in the Zaporizhzhia region in August 2023 when he went missing, the hearing at Manchester Coroner’s Court was told on Friday.
A “suspect”, who was not named at the hearing but is known by Greater Manchester Police to be Nourine Abdelfetah – also known by the nickname “Jihadi Adam” – led Ukrainian authorities to his body in September last year and claimed he had shot him by accident.
At the inquest, the coroner said: “Daniel was unlawfully killed by someone who purported to be his friend.
“He died with bravery and valour but was killed by cowardice and dishonour.”
Daniel Burke
Ukrainian authorities investigating Mr Burke’s death found he had been at a target practice away from the frontline with Mr Abdelfetah, an Australian-Algerian dual national.
Mr Burke wasn’t seen again and a few weeks later the missing persons investigation turned into a murder inquiry after questioning Mr Abdelfetah.
He claimed he had fired at least two shots – one accidentally while he was carrying Mr Burke and the second apparently fired out of mercy.
But a coroner has concluded they do not believe those versions of events, based on forensic tests and a post-mortem.
Mr Abdelfetah has fled Ukraine and his whereabouts are unknown.
‘Still yearning for answers’
Greater Manchester Police read a statement on behalf of Mr Burke’s family, who said they “have never and will never be the same” and are still “yearning for answers”.
“As a family, we cannot do this alone,” they said.
“We are hopeful that the Ukraine authorities will progress the investigation into Daniel’s death, and we hope one day we will be able to say that we have justice for Daniel.”
“Daniel had the most infectious smile and he loved making others laugh,” his family added.
“This is how we will remember him and keep his memory alive.”
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Detective Chief Superintendent Lewis Hughes said their “deepest condolences” are with Mr Burke’s family and close friends.
“We hope that today’s ruling of unlawful killing goes some way in reassuring Daniel’s family and loved ones that this wasn’t an accident,” he added.
“Daniel was killed and his family deserve answers.”
