FORT HOOD, TX — Fort Hood officials say the soldier who collapsed during physical training and later died showed no signs of struggling during the exercise.
Around 7 a.m. on August 28, PV2 Corlton Chee was running during the early morning workout. Officials say he and the members of his 11-man platoon ran as a group to a specified location and were then released to run back to the starting point as fast as they could.
The total distance of the run was roughly 2.2 miles. Fort Hood leadership says this type of activity is a normal part of everyday physical training in the Army.
Witnesses reported PV2 Chee showed no signs of struggling and was running at the front of the group when he collapsed near the end of the run.
After collapsing, unit personnel provided initial care until medics and then Emergency Medical Services arrived. When EMS arrived, they assessed him to be unresponsive and without a pulse. EMS implemented advanced life saving measures until his circulation returned.
PV2 Chee was taken to Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center and assessed for potential causes of the event, determined to be critically ill and was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit with neurological consultation.
On August 29, the soldier was transferred to a higher level care facility based on a worsening of his condition. In consultation with the family, he was transferred to Baylor Scott & White Neurological Intensive Care Unit in Temple, Texas, for continued care.
The chain of command reportedly reached out to PV2 Chee's family on the morning of August 28 to inform them of what happened. His leadership made continued efforts to maintain contact with the family and support them.
The soldier then died on September 2 surrounded by his family.
The chain of command and Army CID have initiated an investigation as is required every time a soldier dies unexpectedly. Officials say they will strive to be as forthcoming and transparent as possible.
Army CID is working closely with the Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences to further understand the cause of his death. Fort Hood officials say it is too early in the process to draw any conclusions about why he collapsed or passed away. However, foul play is not suspected.
PV2 Chee's family told 25 News they believe the soldier was targeted and killed.
The chain of command is planning a unit memorial to honor PV2 Chee's life and service. His family has been invited to attend. With the family's blessing, soldiers and leaders from PV2 Chee's unit plan to attend his funeral in New Mexico to pay their respects.
