AN Inquest has been opened into the death of an army Private found dead at a Barracks in Chester.

Kieran Steven Heaney, 20, was found dead at the Dale Barracks in Chester on January 4 of this year.

Private Heaney served in the 2nd battalion of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment, having joined the British Army in 2019. He was then deployed for a tour in Kabul, Afghanistan in 2021, and was one of the youngest soldiers deployed at the time at just 18 years of age.

Following his death, Kieran received a number of tributes, including from his regiment and commanding officer.

The tribute from the regiment read: "In adverse, austere, and demanding conditions he assisted thousands of Afghan Nationals in escaping to safe locations. This was a testament to his discipline, courage, compassion, and maturity.

“He was known for his bravery, positivity, and courage in and out of the boxing ring. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues."

Headquartered in York, the Royal Yorkshire Regiment's recruitment spans across Yorkshire and Teesside, with the 1st battalion based at Catterick, North Yorkshire, and the 2nd battalion in Chester.

In a tribute from Kieran’s commanding officer, Lt Wade-Smith said: "Private Heaney was dependable, the one you could trust to get the task done, without fuss or fanfare. Reliable and respected by his peers and seniors alike.

"Brave, resilient, disciplined, friendly, fun, and courageous.

"Private Heaney had already demonstrated all these qualities in the operational and sporting arenas.

"Selfless in his service he will be missed by all members of the Battalion.”

An inquest date has been set for June 17, 2024.