APNewsBreak: US soldier ambushed in Niger wasn’t captured

Published:
Photo via CBS Miami

The Associated Press has learned that an American soldier killed in an ambush in Niger with three comrades but recovered days later wasn’t captured alive by the enemy or executed at close range.

That conclusion is based on the findings of a military investigation.

MORE: Florida native was 4th US soldier killed in Niger ambush

The report has determined that La David Johnson – a 25-year-old sergeant – was killed by enemy rifle and machine gun fire as he fled the attack by an offshoot of the Islamic State group.

The attack took place Oct. 4. Johnson’s body was recovered two days later.

U.S. officials familiar with the findings spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity to describe details of an investigation that has not been finalized or publicly released.

MORE: Trump told slain soldier’s widow he ‘knew what he was getting into,’ Congresswoman says

Copyright ©2024 Fort Myers Broadcasting. All rights reserved.

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without prior written consent.