A 39-year-old Staff Seargent assigned to the Army National Guard, Kalamazoo, Michigan, on Title 10 orders died in other ground mishap 28 August 2023 in Marshall, Michigan, at 0238 local. The Soldier and his nephew reportedly died in a house fire. His brother positively identified him at the scene. The Michigan Army National Guard was notified of the Soldier’s death. The Marshall Police Department (MPD) and fire investigators do not suspect foul play and believe the fire was accidental at this time. The unit/safety points of contact are waiting for MPD to release its final report.
Since 2018, the Army has lost an average of three Soldiers a year to off-duty ground other ground mishaps. This was the third off-duty ground other ground mishap of FY23 and above the number of ground other ground fatalities from this time last year.
Safety tip
Did you know that if a fire starts in your home, you may have as little as two minutes to escape? During a fire, early warning from a working smoke alarm plus a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives. Learn what else to do to keep your loved ones safe!
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. Test smoke alarms every month. If they are not working, change the batteries. Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice twice a year. If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone.