The lifeless body of a 20-year-old Fort Drum soldier was located in a New Jersey wooded area over the last weekend days after he vanished on his way to Watertown, New York.
Authorities confirmed the identity of Cpl. Hayden Harris and announced the arrest of a fellow Fort Drum soldier, 23-year-old Jamaal Mellish, in connection with the case.
Harris was fatally shot near Byram Township after reporting to his superiors that he will be traveling to Watertown for a car dealership. The Tennessee native joined the 10th Mountain Division in July 2019 after initial training at Fort Benning, Ga.
Although Harris was an infantryman with the 1st Squadron, 89th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, Army officials promoted him to corporal following his death in honor of his achievements.
The decedent had actually received two Army Achievement Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
“We are devastated,” Brigade General Brett Funck said. “It was well known here that Corporal Harris was a great Soldier, and as we share our grief with his friend and Family, I hear again and again how he was also – and most importantly – a really wonderful, caring person. His death is a tremendous loss for his loved ones, Division, and our nation.”
The Selmer Police Department in native Guys, Tennessee, also mourned Harris’ passing: “We are sad to report that Hayden Harris has been found deceased, our thoughts and prayers are with Harris’s family and friends.”
