A 1st Infantry Division soldier was found unconscious and later pronounced dead early Saturday morning on post, according to a press release from Fort Riley late Wednesday.
Pvt. John Martinez, a cavalry scout with Troop A, 5th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, was found unresponsive in his barracks room and was quickly transported to Irwin Army Community Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
“Our sincere condolences go out to the family of Pvt. Martinez,” said Lt. Col. James Maxwell, 5th Sqdn., 4th Cav. Regt., commander. “We know the death of a family member is deeply tragic, and we too are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our soldiers.
“Pvt. Martinez will truly be missed. His contribution to the squadron and the ‘Dagger’ brigade mission were highly valued, and the tragedy of his loss will undoubtedly be felt across our formations. Our priority right now is to be there for the soldier’s family and the unit, ensuring we are readily available to connect them to all the resources they need during this critical time.”
Martinez joined the Army in July 2016 and arrived at Fort Riley in November 2016. He was 19 years old.
Martinez’s home of record is Houston, Texas. His awards include the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon.
The incident remains under investigation by the Fort Riley Criminal Investigation Command office. For questions about the investigation, please contact U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command Public Affairs Office at (571) 305-4041.
