Vicki L MorrisonPrivate Jeremiah Cross, 34, and his wife Crystal, were driving with their seven month old son Grayson, when they were involved in a fatal accident Saturday night in the northbound lanes of a busy interstate highway in Florence County, South Carolina, according to local media reports.
“On behalf of all soldiers and civilian employees of 2 Service Battalion, I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the family of Private Jeremiah Cross. We all share in the loss of this fine young man and his family. Our focus now is on supporting Jeremiah’s family, and all members of our unit,” Major Brian Lepack, acting commanding officer, 2 Service Battalion.
Police continue to investigate the accident, which reportedly involved five vehicles including two tractor trailers. Reports claim two of the vehicles involved in the crash caught fire.
The accident blocked the northbound lanes of the interstate for roughly 12 hours.
“The death of a soldier at any time is difficult but this accident which claimed the life of this young soldier, his wife and young child is a tragedy which affects us all whether we are military or civilian. We all share in the loss of this young man and his family and I can tell you we will do everything we can to support his family during this difficult time,” said Major Lepack.
Private Cross joined the Canadian Armed Forces almost 3 years ago and was training to be a vehicle technician with 2 Service Battalion. He was a new soldier just beginning to show promise in his career. Although only with the battalion for a brief time Private Cross was considered a member of the Canadian Armed Forces family.
Florence County coroner Keith von Lutcken identified the Pennsylvania victims as Jacqueline McCann, 51, and Barry Himes, 52, both of Johnstown.
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