West Point cadet killed, 21 injured
Truck used in training rolls on ‘very hilly’ ground
WEST POINT, N.Y. – A West Point cadet was killed and 19 fellow cadets and two soldiers were injured Thursday when a tactical vehicle overturned in woody, mountainous terrain on the way to a summer training site, according to Army Gen. Darrell Williams.
The cadets – all seniors preparing to enter their final year at the U.S. Military Academy – and the soldiers were operating the Light Medium Tactical Vehicle. The accident occurred around 6:45 a.m. near the academy as the cadets were being taken to early morning land navigation training.
Officials withheld the name of the victims, pending notification of next of kin and further investigation into the accident. Williams said the injuries, which included abrasions and a broken arm, were not life-threatening.
He declined to say where the deceased cadet was sitting when the accident occurred but noted that the soldiers were driving the vehicle.
The vehicle, a military truck that can carry personnel, had two people in the front cab and the rest in the back. Williams said there was no indication the vehicle was carrying more passengers than normal.
Williams said it was unusual for such a vehicle to roll over. He said the vehicle was traveling through the “very hilly” terrain as part of “realistic training” for the cadets.
President Donald Trump said on Twitter, “So sorry to hear about the terrible accident involving our GREAT West Point Cadets. We mourn the loss of life and pray for the injured. God Bless them ALL!”
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said the tragedy is made “all the more heart-wrenching as we commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day today, a day where we remember those who gave their lives for our country.”
Steve Lieberman, Peter D. Kramer and Doug Stanglin