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NEWS RELEASE HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND 7115 South Boundary Boulevard MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101 Phone: (813) 827-5894; FAX: (813) 827-2211; DSN 651-5894

March 31, 2003
Release Number: 03-03-107


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


CHECKPOINT INCIDENT RESULTS IN FATALITIES

OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM -- Soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division fired on a civilian vehicle at approximately 4:30 p.m. today when it failed to stop at a military checkpoint in Iraq, even after warning shots were fired at the vehicle.

Seven occupants were killed, two were injured and four were unharmed. Initial reports indicate the passengers were women and children.

The checkpoint was located along Route 9 near An Najaf. Soldiers manning the checkpoint motioned for the vehicle to stop, but were ignored by the driver. The soldiers fired warning shots, which were also ignored by the driver. The soldiers then fired shots into the engine of the vehicle, but it continued moving toward the checkpoint.

As a last resort, the soldiers fired into the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

An investigation of the incident is underway. Initial reports indicate the soldiers responded in accordance with the rules of engagement to protect themselves. In light of recent terrorist attacks by the Iraqi regime, the soldiers exercised considerable restraint to avoid the unnecessary loss of life.