Soldier dies while training at Fort Moore. It’s the second death during training this year

A soldier is dead and an investigation is underway following a medical emergency he experienced Friday during a training event at Fort Moore, according to an Army spokesperson.

The soldier has been identified as Pfc. Cesar Gonzalez, 21, of Chicago, Ill., according to the spokesperson.

He was an infantryman (11B) assigned to Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 58th Infantry Regiment, 198th Infantry Brigade.

Gonzalez was taken to Martin Army Community Hospital where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival, according to the release.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Private First Class Gonzalez’ family, friends, and fellow teammates during this difficult time,” said Lt. Col. Michael Moore, commander of 2nd Battalion, 58th Infantry Regiment said in a statement. “He was an exceptional Soldier and dedicated friend to those around him.”

Gonzalez began his Army journey in the Future Soldier Preparatory Course May 2 at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. He started Infantry One Station Unit Training (OSUT) at Fort Moore on June 16. Gonzalez wrote in his in-processing form that he joined the Army to challenge himself and to support his family. Gonzalez was on track to graduate OSUT in few weeks.

“The Wolfpack family is devastated by the unfortunate and untimely passing of Private First Class Gonzalez, an outstanding soldier in our organization,” said Gonzalez’s company commander Capt. Stephanie Snyder in a statement. “This heartbreaking loss has affected every person in the company. We send our condolences to his family and friends, and our prayers are with them during this incredibly difficult time.”

This is the second death reported from medical emergency’s during a training event at Fort Moore this year.

Pfc. Jacob T. Atchison, 19, died in July of this year following a medical emergency during a training event with his company at Fort Moore, according to Ledger-Enquirer reporting.

Originally from Pella, Iowa, Atchison had just been named “Top Shot” for Delta Company, 3rd Battalion, 47th Infantry Regiment, for qualifying as an expert marksman with his weapon, the M4, before his death, the Army said.

This story was originally published October 23, 2023 at 3:10 PM.