A Private First Class assigned to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, died in a Sports, Recreation and Physical Training mishap 24 November 2020 on the installation. The Soldier was operating his dirt bike with his friend near the Fort Bragg training area. The friend left about 1430, while the Soldier continued riding. He was traveling east on a dirt road when he struck a tree. At approximately 2340, members of the Soldier’s platoon discovered his dirt bike. A special agent with the Criminal Investigation Division notified the platoon that a body was recovered and they were awaiting confirmation that it was the Soldier. The following morning, the Soldier’s battalion and company commander identified his body. This investigation is currently ongoing. Alcohol use is not suspected in the incident. Personal protective equipment was worn, but completion of the required Motorcycle Safety Foundation courses is unknown at this time.

Since 2016, the Army has lost an average of 13 Soldiers a year to Sports, Recreation and Physical Training mishaps. This mishap is the second off-duty Sports, Recreation and Physical Training fatality of FY21 and above the number of fatalities for the same time period last year.


If you are planning to operate any off-road type of disciplines or simply trail riding with others, be sure to stay on well-marked and frequently used trails to prevent any occurrences with fencing and avoid unforeseen surprises such as holes, abandoned mines, well pipes, debris, ditches or drop offs, all of which could be disastrous if encountered suddenly at speed.

Dirt Bike Riding Tips:

-Always wear a Department of Transportation-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots and gloves.
-Except for dual-purpose models, never ride on paved surfaces except to cross when done safely and permitted by law; another vehicle could hit you. Dirt bikes are designed to be operated off-highway.
-Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
-Supervise riders younger than 16; dirt bikes are not toys.
-Never permit youngsters to ride dirt bikes that are too tall or too powerful for their capabilities.
-Don’t ride alone on remote trails. Use the buddy system.
-Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.
-Take a hands-on riding course.

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