Tributes paid to 'much loved' soldier after inquest

Jury concludes inconsistent safety procedures led to L/Cpl Joe Spencer's death during sniper training

Mar. 13, 2026 at 6:03am

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The family of L/Cpl Joe Spencer, a 24-year-old soldier who died from a gunshot to the head while waiting to go on a firing range during sniper training in the Scottish Highlands, have paid tribute to him as a 'much-loved son, brother and partner'. The inquest jury concluded that 'inconsistent range management and adherence to safety procedures' contributed to the 'unintentional discharge' of his weapon, though the exact circumstances remained a mystery.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the importance of strict safety protocols and proper training procedures in the military, especially for high-risk activities like sniper training. The family's disappointment that not all those involved gave full evidence suggests a need for greater transparency and accountability around such incidents.

The details

L/Cpl Joe Spencer, a member of 3rd Battalion The Rifles, died on November 1, 2016 when his L115A3 sniper rifle fired unexpectedly during training in the Scottish Highlands. The inquest jury concluded that 'inconsistent range management and adherence to safety procedures' led to 'the omission of a full unload drill', leaving 'a live round remained chambered in Joe's rifle' which resulted in the 'unintentional discharge' of his weapon. However, the exact circumstances of how the gun went off could not be ascertained.

  • L/Cpl Joe Spencer died on November 1, 2016.
  • The inquest took place over 7 days and concluded on March 13, 2026.
  • A fatal accident inquiry was released in December 2024.

The players

L/Cpl Joe Spencer

A 24-year-old soldier from Hampshire who died from a gunshot to the head during sniper training in the Scottish Highlands.

Graham Spencer

The father of L/Cpl Joe Spencer, who paid tribute to his 'much-loved son, brother and partner'.

Sheriff Gary Aitken

The sheriff who conducted the fatal accident inquiry and found that Spencer's death could have been avoided if he had properly unloaded his rifle and not been 'holding it vertically in close proximity to his body'.

Colour Sgt Gordon Smart

A safety supervisor on the day of the incident who found L/Cpl Spencer's body and was told by another soldier that it was his 'fault' because he had bumped into Spencer.

Christopher Leveridge

A soldier who told Colour Sgt Gordon Smart that the incident was his 'fault' because he had bumped into L/Cpl Spencer.

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What they’re saying

“Joe was a much-loved son, brother and partner, his unnecessary death has left an immeasurable chasm in our lives.”

— Graham Spencer, Father of L/Cpl Joe Spencer

“Despite being badly injured while serving in Afghanistan, he fought back with incredible determination to continue the career he loved. That was the measure of Joe.”

— Graham Spencer, Father of L/Cpl Joe Spencer

“It was clear from their accounts that Joe was a highly capable and well-respected soldier.”

— Graham Spencer, Father of L/Cpl Joe Spencer

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the critical importance of strict safety protocols and proper training procedures in the military, especially for high-risk activities. It also highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability around such incidents to ensure lessons are learned and prevent future tragedies.