Preliminary Loss Reports (PLRs)

A 31-year-old Specialist assigned to the U.S. Army Reserve, Clay Kaserne, Germany, died in an Industrial/Occupational mishap 2 July 2025 in Senftenberg, Germany, at 2330 local. The Soldier received a severe electrical shock during a rail escort mission when he contacted overhead power lines while on top of an M2A1 vehicle secured to a rail car. He sustained second- and third-degree burns and was transported to a hospital in Berlin, where he died from his injuries six days later. Additional information is currently available.

Since FY20, the Army has lost two Soldiers to Industrial/Occupational mishaps. This mishap was the first Industrial/Occupational Soldier fatality of FY25 and above the number of fatalities for this same time last year. 

Safety Tips

• Consider potential electrical hazards: Before any activity near power lines, conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate safety measures.
• Assume power lines are energized: Always treat all power lines as if they are live and dangerous, regardless of whether you believe they are insulated.
• Maintain a safe distance in accordance with Technical Manual (TM) 4-14.21, Table 6-1: When performing work near electrical power lines, including loading and unloading operations, the required clearance shown below will be maintained between personnel, their tools and equipment, and the nearest power line.

1. Operating Voltage: 0 – 5,000 requires a minimum distance of 4 feet
2. Operating Voltage: 5,000 – 15,500 requires a minimum distance of 6 feet
3. Operating Voltage: 15,500 – 25,000 requires a minimum distance of 7.5 feet
4. Operating Voltage: 25,000 – 35,000 requires a minimum distance of 9 feet
5. Operating Voltage: 35,000 – 50,000 requires a minimum distance of 12 feet
6. Note: For voltages over 50,000 volts, add one-half inch for each 1,000 volts.

• When unable to maintain the required clearance distance near power lines: Leadership and safety professionals must notify the installation power or controlling authority and have them turn off the power supply for the affected area. Do not start any work until authorized by the installation power or the controlling authority. Do not turn the power back on until authorized by a supervisor.
• When unable to maintain the required distance near signal lines: If performing work near a 2,400-volt or greater signal line that does not permit the clearance outlined, leadership and safety professionals must notify the signalman to switch the power off on that portion of the line. Do not start work until the signalman says that the power has been switched off. Make sure the signalman understands not to switch power on again until advised by the supervisor in charge of the work. If the power is switched off, equipment will be kept at least one-half the clearance distance indicated, but in no case may the clearance be less than 4 feet.
• Look up and be aware: Before you start climbing or working, always scan the area and identify the location of all overhead power lines. Be especially cautious around trees, as branches can obscure power lines.
• Have a spotter and maintain clear communication: When working at heights or near power lines, a spotter can help maintain a safe distance and communicate any potential hazards.
• Train all railhead personnel: Ensure everyone working on or around the railhead operation site is properly trained on hazards, including electrical hazards, and safe work practices.
• Oversight: Railhead safety officers and safety noncommissioned officers must exercise overall supervision and management of rail operations, including training and safety responsibilities in accordance with Army Regulation 56-3.

A 19-year-old Specialist assigned to the Iowa Army National Guard died in an automobile mishap 2 July 2025 near Mount Pleasant, Iowa, at 1250 local. The Soldier had returned to Iowa following duty at Fort Polk, Louisiana, and was headed home when the mishap occurred. Additional information is currently unavailable. 

Since FY20, the Army has lost an average of 36 Soldiers a year to automobile mishaps. This mishap was the 24th automobile fatality of FY25 and below the number of fatalities for this same time last year. 

Safety Tips

Stay Alert on the Road: 8 Effective Tips to Fight Driver Fatigue

1. Get a good night's sleep before starting your journey.
2. Take regular breaks.
3. Avoid driving during peak sleepiness hours.
4. Stay hydrated and eat light.
5. Listen to upbeat music or audiobooks.
6. Utilize proper ventilation.
7. Exercise before you drive.
8. Avoid medications that cause drowsiness.

Here are some tips to reduce distracted driving:

• Do not multitask. Finish eating, drinking and grooming before you turn on your car. Program your audio and navigation systems before you start to drive.
• Turn off your phone and place it out of reach when you get in the driver's seat.
• Never text while driving, even when you are stopped in traffic or at a traffic light.
• If you must send or receive a call or text, pull over to a safe location and park your car first.
• Avoid using any device that may take your attention away from the task of driving.  

A Private First Class assigned to Fort Sam Houston, Texas, died in a motorcycle mishap 26 June 2025 in Long Beach, California, at 2223 local. The Soldier was operating his motorcycle while on leave when he collided with a pickup truck. The Long Beach Police Department responded to the scene. Additional information is currently unavailable.  

Since FY20, the Army has lost an average of 30 Soldiers a year to motorcycle mishaps. This mishap was the 19th motorcycle fatality of FY25 and below the number of fatalities for this same time last year.  

Safety Tips

When passing other vehicles on a motorcycle, it's crucial to be aware of your surroundings and adhere to safety guidelines. Here are some key tips to ensure a safe passing experience:

• Assess the Situation: Before deciding to pass, evaluate if it's necessary and if the vehicle ahead is moving significantly slower than the speed limit.
• Use Your Mirrors: Check your side and rear mirrors before changing lanes or making a turn, especially when there's a motorcycle nearby.
• Maintain Lane Position: Stay in the center portion of your lane and maintain a steady speed to avoid startling the motorcyclist.
• Be Clear: Clearly signal your intentions to the motorcyclist before passing.
• Check Blind Spots: Use mirrors to check for blind spots and ensure you can see the road ahead and behind before making a pass.
• Be Calm: Stay calm and composed, as sudden movements can startle the motorcyclist and lead to an accident.
• Plan Ahead: Always plan your route and consider the traffic flow before deciding to pass.
• Stay Focused: Keep your focus on the road and avoid distractions that could affect your ability to pass safely.

Tips provided by various sources, including the NSC, NHTSA, and numerous motorcycle safety blogs and magazines.

A 26-year-old Staff Sergeant assigned to Camp Erbil, Iraq, died in an on-duty Weapons and Explosives mishap 17 June 2025 on the installation at 0053 local. While handling his weapon, a Soldier unintentionally discharged a round, which struck another Soldier in the collarbone and neck area. The injured Soldier was transported to a ROLE III medical facility, where he was pronounced dead. Additional information is currently unavailable.

This was the first on-duty Weapons and Explosives fatality since FY22.

Safety Tips

Always THINK weapons safety:

• Treat every weapon as if it is loaded.
• Handle every weapon with care.
• Identify the target before you fire.
• Never point the muzzle at anything you don’t intend to shoot.
• Keep the weapon on safe and your finger off the trigger until you intend to fire.