CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – Letterkenny Army Depot announced yesterday the death of a U.S. Army soldier on the installation.
Pfc. Krystofer Lopez, 18, of Biglerville, Pennsylvania, died from wounds sustained during a training incident while on duty. Lopez received immediate medical attention on-site and then transferred to WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital for further evaluation and treatment. The incident is currently under investigation by the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division.
Lopez served as a 31B/military police officer for the LEAD Directorate of Emergency Services Law Enforcement Division. He was a Personnel Force Innovation member assigned to the 947th Quartermaster Company, a tenant unit based out of Letterkenny Army Depot. PFI is a Department of Defense program that provides voluntary, active-duty, orders to Guard and Reserve Soldiers. It acts as a bridge to fill critical, non-permanent, or surge-capacity needs within defense agencies.
“The entire Letterkenny family is heartbroken by the loss of Pfc. Krystofer Lopez. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family, friends and fellow soldiers during this incredibly difficult time,” said Col. Caleb Lewis, Letterkenny Army Depot commander.
“Krystofer was a valued member of our team, and his dedication to our nation’s defense was evident to all who worked alongside him.
“We recognize the immense sacrifice made by Krystofer and his family. The loss of any soldier is a loss for the entire Army, and we are committed to providing the necessary support and resources to his loved ones as they navigate this unimaginable grief. We ask for the community’s respect and privacy for the family as they mourn their son and brother.:”
In recognition of his dedicated service and sacrifice, Pfc. Lopez was posthumously promoted to the rank of Specialist.
State Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-Franklin/Adams) said he and his wife, Rebbie, are “heartbroken” at the news of Lopez’ death.
“Our prayers are with this soldier’s family, friends, fellow service members and the dedicated employees at Letterkenny who are grieving this profound loss,” Mastriano said.
“Having served more than 30 years in the U.S. Army, I know firsthand the deep bonds shared among soldiers and the tremendous sacrifices made by our service members and their families. News like this strikes close to the heart for all who have worn the uniform. This brave soldier answered the call to serve our nation, and that sacrifice will never be forgotten.
“The men and women who train and work at Letterkenny Army Depot play a critical role in protecting our country and supporting the readiness of our armed forces. Rebbie and I stand with this soldier’s loved ones and the entire Letterkenny community during this incredibly difficult time.
“We understand the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division is actively reviewing the circumstances surrounding this incident. As chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee and the state senator representing this community, I will continue to monitor developments closely and remain in contact with local and military leaders as more information becomes available.
“May God bring comfort and strength to those mourning this loss, and may we always honor the service and sacrifice of those who defend our nation.”
