Christchurch man killed while supporting war efforts in Ukraine

Friday 30 May 2025 · 6 outlets · 4 reports · updated Fri 30 May 2025, 8:48am

In this story Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Twenty-six-year-old Shan-Le Kearns has died in Ukraine, reportedly while attempting to save fellow soldiers. He was a Christchurch resident who lacked military training but was described as very professional. He is the fourth New Zealander known to have died in the conflict.

How they headlined it

8:09am

1. The Press via RNZFri 30 May 2025, 8:09am

   New Zealander killed in Ukraine died trying to save fellow soldiers, RNZ understands (opens in new tab)

   Also on Waikato Times (opens in new tab), RNZ (opens in new tab), The Post (opens in new tab)

2. RNZFri 30 May 2025, 8:31am

   New Zealander killed in Ukraine 'very professional' in role, former defence minister (opens in new tab)

3. NZ HeraldFri 30 May 2025, 8:46am

   New Zealander killed in Ukraine died trying to save fellow soldiers (opens in new tab)

4. Otago Daily TimesFri 30 May 2025, 8:48am

   Christchurch man believed killed trying to save wounded soldiers in Ukraine (opens in new tab)