JUST IN: Sky News halts for tragic d3ath announcement in major breaking news alert
Sky News interrupted its teatime programme with a breaking announcement after the British serviceman who died in Ukraine was formally named as Major Paul Wilks.
Presenter Mark Austin brought the programme to a halt on Wednesday, September 16, to share confirmation from the Ministry of Defence.
Major Wilks, 40, died following a road traffic accident in Ukraine on Saturday, September 12. The incident happened away from the front lines, according to the MoD.
Introducing the update, Mark told viewers that breaking information had just arrived from the Ministry of Defence before confirming the officer’s identity.
Major Wilks was serving with the Intelligence Corps and had built a distinguished military career stretching back more than a decade.
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Ministry of Defence Pays Emotional Tribute
Following confirmation of his death, the Ministry of Defence paid tribute to Major Wilks as an “exceptionally bright and professional officer”.
He was described as a gifted leader who had earned the respect and admiration of those who served alongside him.
The MoD said he was a formidable officer, colleague and friend, but stressed that his family remained the most important part of his life.
“Above all, Major Wilks was a proud family man and was devoted to his wife and two sons,” the tribute said.
His commanding officer also remembered him as a man capable of remaining warm and good-humoured even in high-pressure environments.
“It is with profound sadness that we honour the memory of Major Paul Wilks,” the officer said.
Major Wilks was described as highly intelligent while still remaining approachable and close to those around him.
“He was a man of great intellect, yet he remained a mate to those he served with,” his commanding officer added.
The tribute also revealed that Major Wilks frequently spoke about the love he had for his wife and two sons.
Major Wilks Joined Intelligence Corps in 2012
Major Wilks began his military career after attending the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
He was commissioned in 2012 and joined the Intelligence Corps, remaining with it throughout his career before rising to the rank of major.
His service included multiple operational tours, including a deployment to Afghanistan.
Lieutenant General Matthew Jones, Chief of Defence Intelligence and Colonel Commandant Intelligence Corps, described Major Wilks as one of the most talented intelligence officers of his generation.
He praised the officer’s sharp intellect, determination and ability to remain calm under pressure.
A former commanding officer offered an equally emotional tribute, describing Major Wilks as one of the finest leaders and intelligence officers he had ever worked with.
He remembered him not only for his professional ability, but also for his compassion and humanity.
“He was the best of us,” the former commander said.
Only months before his death, Major Wilks had received further recognition for his military service.
He was awarded the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal in May.
Death Was Away From Front Lines
British military personnel in Ukraine perform a range of supporting roles, including helping provide security for diplomatic operations and supporting Ukraine’s armed forces.
The Ministry of Defence has emphasised that Major Wilks did not die during combat.
His death resulted from what officials described as a “tragic road traffic incident” away from the front lines.
His identity had initially been withheld at his family’s request before being formally released on Wednesday.
For viewers watching Sky News, the announcement turned an ordinary evening broadcast into a sombre moment as Mark Austin paused the programme to deliver confirmation of the tragedy.
The tributes that followed painted a picture of an officer admired for both his professional ability and his personality.
Major Wilks leaves behind his wife and two sons, as well as colleagues across the Intelligence Corps who have remembered him as a leader, friend and deeply respected member of the British Armed Forces.
His military career was marked by service, leadership and recognition.
But amid the official honours and tributes, those who knew him have repeatedly returned to something more personal — his devotion to his family and the warmth he brought to those serving alongside him.
