Release # 03-05-109

CAMP DOHA, Kuwait -- Two soldiers driving in a U.S. Army Palatized Load System (PLS)

supply vehicle accidentally struck and killed an Iraqi child while traveling south in Central Iraq

at 25 miles per hour on Main Supply Route Tampa (Highway 1), 20 miles north of

Tallil, at about 11:30 a.m., today.

Initial reports indicate the child crossed the road and was hit by a cargo trailer.

The soldiers called for an emergency medical evacuation helicopter immediately; however,

the child died before the aircraft arrived at the scene. The soldiers were augmenting the

unit with the Red Ball mission when it occurred. It is unknown why the child was crossing the

highway. The incident is currently under investigation.

Coalition Forces continue to stress safety to its servicemembers and keep the Iraqi

populace informed about the dangers of crossing the main supply routes where military

convoys travel.

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