COLUMBIA, S.C. – The death of a U.S. Army drill sergeant at Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina, marked the second such incident at the training base in 10 days. Staff Sergeant Zachary Melton, 30, was found dead in his vehicle on Saturday after failing to report for work.
According to a press release from the base, Melton, attached to the 1st Battalion, 34th Infantry Regiment, was pronounced dead by emergency medical services personnel. The U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division is currently looking into the circumstances surrounding his death.
Brigadier General Jason Kelly, the commanding general at Fort Jackson, expressed sadness over the loss of Staff Sergeant Melton, extending condolences to his family and fellow soldiers. Additional details about the cause of death have not been disclosed at this time.
Melton’s death comes just days after the passing of another drill sergeant at the military base. On December 8, Staff Sergeant Allen Burtram, 34, was found deceased after also failing to report for duty. Army officials have stated that there is no apparent evidence of foul play in Burtram’s death.
The tragic incidents have raised concerns about safety and well-being at Fort Jackson, where three drill sergeants have now died in 2023. The base, known as the main production center for Army combat training, plays a crucial role in shaping new soldiers as they enter the forces. However, the series of deaths have brought into question the circumstances of these tragedies and the support systems in place for military personnel.
As investigations continue, the Army and Fort Jackson officials are committed to determining the cause of these deaths and ensuring the well-being of all personnel stationed at the base.
In summary, two drill sergeants at Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina, have been found dead within a span of 10 days, raising concerns about safety and well-being at the training base. The U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division is currently looking into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, as officials aim to provide clarity and support for military personnel stationed at the base.