SAS sniper who was first British soldier to die fighting ISIS in Syria was killed by friendly fire

An SAS sniper who was the first British soldier to die fighting Islamic State in Syria was killed by friendly fire and not in a roadside bomb, it was revealed today.

Sergeant Matt Tonroe, from Manchester, died last year alongside US commando Master Sergeant Jonathan J Dunbar while on a joint operation with American special forces.

The 33-year-old became the first Briton to die fighting terrorists in war-torn Syria in March 2018.

The Pentagon blamed their deaths on an improvised explosive device (IED), but an investigation into the blast in Manbij has concluded Sgt Tonroe was killed by an explosive carried by a colleague.

Investigators could not rule out the possibility that a grenade carried by another coalition soldier killed both men, according to The Morning Star newspaper.

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: "Sergeant Matt Tonroe died from blast injuries caused by an explosion during a military operation.

"It was initially believed that Sgt Tonroe was killed by enemy action, however subsequent investigation concluded that Sgt Tonroe was killed by the accidental detonation of explosives carried by coalition forces.

"Our thoughts continue to be with Sgt Tonroe's family and friends."

Last year, Sgt Tonroe’s Commanding Officer, who cannot be named for security reasons, called the 33-year-old a “deeply intelligent man and one of life’s characters”.

He said: “He was a caring and considerate soul, a loving and dutiful son, and a friend to many.

“Yet he had a steel core, served his country with pride and was a first class soldier, proven in combat, faced risk willingly and was ever ready for more.

“He thus died as he lived: daring and fearless in duty. We mourn his loss dearly, are proud to have known him and will honour him by continuing this fight."

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson also paid tribute, saying Sgt Tonroe “served his country with great distinction”.

He added: “It is clear from the tributes made by his colleagues that he was not only exceptionally dedicated and courageous but also a gifted and intelligent instructor who was respected by everyone he served with.

"Sergeant Tonroe fought to protect British values, our freedoms and to keep us back at home safe. His sacrifice, unflinching commitment and bravery will never be forgotten."