The identities of the two Marines who died Wednesday following a military truck crash in North Carolina have been released.
Lance Cpl. Jonathan Gierke, 19, of Georgia and Pfc. Zachary Riffle, 18, of West Virginia were identified as the deceased Friday, according to a Marine Corps announcement.
The crash occurred in Onslow County where U.S. 17 and North Carolina Highway 210 intersect, according to a report.
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Authorities arrived on the scene around 1 p.m. and reported that a 7-ton military vehicle attempted a right turn and overturned.
At least 17 marines were ejected from the vehicle, and 15 were hospitalized, police said.
Another military vehicle behind the one that overturned was unable to stop and struck at least one of the ejected marines.
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Lance Corporal Jonathan E. Gierke and Private First Class Zachary W. Riffle died January 19, 2022, following a tactical vehicle rollover mishap near Jacksonville, North Carolina.
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A 19-year-old woman was involved in the crash and has been charged with two counts of misdemeanor death by motor vehicle and one count of exceeding a safe speed.
“My sincerest heartfelt condolences are extended to the family, friends, and colleagues of the Marines who lost their lives or were injured in Wednesday’s vehicle mishap,” Brig. Gen. Forrest C. Poole III, commanding general of the 2nd Marine Logistics Group, said.
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“Our commanders, chaplains, and medical providers are diligently supporting our Marines and Sailors during this time. We deeply appreciate all of the thoughtful community messages we have received over the past several days.”
