West Point Cadet Killed, 22 Wounded In Training Accident
The accident occurred near the Camp Natural Bridge training site, the school said in a tweet. Camp Natural Bridge is a training site used by cadets during the summer. The soldiers driving during the crash were from the Fort Benning task force 1-28, Kevin Larson, spokesperson for Fort Stewart in Georgia, told CBS News. They were at West Point taking part in a summer training program for cadets.
West Point confirmed to CBS News that only military personnel were involved. First responders were on the scene and providing medical care. The school said the accident occurred around 6:45 a.m. According to CBS New York, initial reports suggested an Army vehicle rolled over. The station also reported emergency helicopters were being brought to the scene.
U.S. Military Academy✔@WestPoint_USMA
One cadet is reported deceased, 20 cadets and two soldiers are wounded that were involved in a Light Medium Tactical Vehicle accident that occurred at approximately 6:45 a.m. off Route 293.
The military academy said the injured were transported to local hospitals and the incident is under investigation. “West Point officials thank local and state emergency responders for their assistance on the scene,” the academy tweeted.
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo issued a statement saying his “heart breaks for all those involved in the tragic training accident.” Cuomo also directed New York’s Office of Emergency Management to provide “any resources necessary” to assist officials.
President Trump, who was in Europe commemorating D-Day, also offered his condolences Thursday 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!”
