The death of a Fort Hood soldier is under investigation after he was found unresponsive near Stillhouse Hollow Lake.
Officials say 26-year-old Pvt. Mejhor Morta was found in the vicinity of the lake on July 17.
The soldier was from Pensacola, Florida, and entered the Army in September 2019, as a Bradley Fighting Vehicle mechanic. He has been assigned to 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, since May 2020.
"I reached out to his sister today and they are currently in the Philippines," Hunter Proffitt, a friend of Pvt. Morta, told 25 News. "He literally came over here, he joined the U.S. army to help move his family over here. He wanted to move his family. He wanted to make a better life for himself and then we find out that this happens."
Pvt. Morta’s awards and decorations include the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.
“The Black Knight family is truly heartbroken by the tragic loss of Private Mejhor Morta. I would like to send my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and loved ones,” said Lt. Col. Neil Armstrong, commander of 1st Bn. 5th Cav. Regt. “My thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time. Private Morta was a great Trooper and this loss is felt by every member within our formation.”
Officials say the incident is under investigation by the Bell County Sheriff's Department.
