Tragic Accident in Alaska: Two Soldiers Killed and a Dozen Injured as Army Transport Vehicle Overturns
In an unfortunate incident just outside Salcha, Alaska, on Monday, a U.S. Army transport vehicle flipped, resulting in the tragic loss of two soldiers’ lives and injuries to 12 others. According to a news release by U.S. Army Alaska, the accident occurred as 17 soldiers were aboard a light medium tactical vehicle, which is commonly used for troop transport, while traveling on a dirt road leading into the Yukon Training Area.
Training Exercise Tragedy in Alaska: Soldiers Injured as Army Vehicle Flips
An Army spokesperson, John Pennell, informed the local outlet KTUU that the soldiers involved, who are part of the 11th Airborne Division, were engaged in training exercises when the unfortunate incident occurred. Pennell explained that at some point during the exercise, the driver lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn.
Upon the accident, first responders provided initial medical care to the injured soldiers, who were subsequently transported to the Fairbanks Memorial Hospital. Among the 12 injured, the two most critically wounded were airlifted to Providence Medical Center in Anchorage.
The response efforts received support from various agencies, including the Alaska State Troopers, the North Pole Fire Department, and Eielson Air Force Base.
John Pennell expressed the collective sorrow, stating, “We’re all grieving and doing our best to support the families. Anytime we lose our soldiers, it’s a tragic event for the family, for their fellow soldiers, and for their friends. Essentially, the entire 11th Airborne Division family is mourning the loss of these two soldiers and preparing to assist the families they’ve left behind.”
The incident is currently under investigation.