Tributes paid to soldier, 24, who died at Royal Windsor Horse Show
The 24-year-old soldier who died at the Royal Windsor Horse Show was described as a “bright light” in tributes to him.
Lance Bombardier Ciara Sullivan, part of the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, fell from her horse after leaving the arena around 7pm on Friday.
Thames Valley Police said despite immediate medical attention, the woman suffered serious injuries and died at the scene.
His commanding officer said LBdr Sullivan, known as ‘Sully’ to his friends, was a “highly professional soldier and an outstanding jockey” and was “a bright light in every room he entered”.
“He approached each day in the Corps with an infectious energy – the kind that lifted those around him without effort or intent – and was unfailingly there for his comrades in both the small moments and the difficult ones,” they added.
“An outstanding soldier and a role model to many with whom he worked. He was a fearless and skilled rider, riding since childhood and competing in the jumping ring before joining the regiment; it was this natural courage that made him always the first to volunteer to ride the toughest horses.”
He has also been described as a talented football player and a natural leader and trainer.
Lt. Gen. Mike Elviss added: “A good soldier died doing a job he loved, surrounded by people who held him in the highest regard. A dedicated, committed and highly respected junior commander, he will be greatly missed.”
“The Royal Regiment of Artillery and the wider British Army are a lesser place without him.”
LBdr Sullivan joined the army in November 2020 before joining King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery in June 2021.
He had a natural interest in horses and took part in numerous ceremonial operations, taking part in royal gun salutes in Hyde Park and Green Park, and performing for Queen Elizabeth II. At the state funeral of Elizabeth and King George III. He worked on the coronations of Charles and Queen Camilla.
A Buckingham Palace spokesman said King Charles would contact the victim’s family to offer his condolences.
The King attended the event on Saturday. He was photographed at the fashion show wearing a tweed jacket, cream-colored trousers and tinted sunglasses.
They said in a statement: “Although Her Majesty and other Members of the Royal Family were present in the arena when the incident occurred, they were not made aware of the seriousness of the situation until later.
“The King was later shocked and saddened to learn of the League member’s death and will be contacting the family to share his personal condolences.
“The thoughts and deepest condolences of the entire Royal Family are with the victim’s loved ones and military colleagues at this sad time.”
Defense secretary John Healey said: “Lance Bombardier Ciara Sullivan was a brilliant young soldier who selflessly served our nation. Her death leaves us all deeply shocked and saddened.”
“My thoughts are with Ciara’s family, loved ones and colleagues at this devastating time.”
Thames Valley Police said the death was being treated as unexplained but not suspicious.
