18-year-old soldier killed during training at Fort Jackson identified

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - An 18-year-old soldier in the Army who died during training at Fort Jackson has been identified.

The soldier died Thursday at a rifle range. Officials say the young man suffered a “fatal injury,” but they did not specify what happened.

EMS rushed the soldier to the hospital, but he was pronounced dead.

He’s been identified as Pvt. James Noel Zamora, 18, from California. He was assigned to Company D, 3rd Battalion, 34th Infantry Regiment.

No other trainees or cadre were injured on the range, officials said.

After Zamora’s death, Fort Jackson command ordered a 36-hour training stand down.

Trainees at the base were also allowed to call home over the weekend.

“Our hearts are heavy for Pvt. Zamora’s family, the soldiers in his unit, and all the family members affected by the loss of James,” said Fort Jackson Commander Brig. Gen. Milford H. Beagle, Jr. “At this difficult time, we have chaplains, grief counselors, and other medical professionals providing comfort and assistance to those involved.”

An investigation has been launched by military law enforcement.

Officials say they are investigating what caused the soldier’s death, but say it was not related to COVID-19.

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