Missing Fort Bliss Soldier Found Dead In Arizona

The family of a Fort Bliss soldier is mourning his death today. 21-year-old Pvt. 2nd Class Devon Lee Ward was last seen on Wednesday, May 25th, at 3 a.m. He signed into his barracks and had not been seen since. His parents made an emotional appeal for him to come home, but sadly, his death has been confirmed.

Cochise, Arizona sheriff's officials say remains that were discovered on June 27 at the Apache Generating Station have been identified as Ward's. Investigators said it appeared the body may have been in a coal train car before the coal was dumped into the coal chute at the power plant.

Ward's mother told El Paso media earlier this year that her son suffered from Aspergers, which is a high-functioning form of autism.

It is not known how Pvt. Ward ended up in Arizona. The investigation is ongoing.

Our deepest sympathy and condolences go out to the family of Pvt. Ward. We are terribly sorry to hear of this sad news.