- 23-year-old Pvt. Glendon Oakley was found dead in his on-post quarters at Fort Bliss this week, base officials told Insider in an emailed statement.
- The soldier had been praised for his heroism during a mass shooting in El Paso, Texas last August and even received the Army Commendation Medal for his actions.
- Fort Bliss officials said that Oakley's death is under investigation by Army Criminal Investigation Command. Foul play is not currently suspected.
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A US soldier whose heroism during a tragic mass shooting made headlines around the country was found dead at Fort Bliss Wednesday, base officials told Insider Friday.
Pvt. Glendon Oakley was a 23-year-old Texas native who served as automated supply logistical specialist assigned to the 504th Composite Supply Company, 142nd Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 1st Armored Division Sustainment Brigade.
His death is under investigation by Army Criminal Investigation Command special agents. Fort Bliss officials said that no foul play is suspected at this time.
In the wake of a mass shooting in El Paso, Texas last August that left 22 people dead, Oakley emerged a hero after he led children to safety. The horrific incident shook Oakley, who told reporters it "was the worst thing I've ever been through in my life."
When a gunman opened fire at an El Paso Walmart on August 3, Oakley was shopping at the Cielo Vista Mall nearby. Springing into action, he guided scared, unattended children to police officers outside.
"You could hear all of the chaos going around, and that is when I did what I was trained to do," he said in one interview. "I quickly reacted and I thought to myself if my child were there how I would want someone else to react. I just took action and tried to get as many kids as possible."
In talks with reporters after the shooting, Oakley broke down in tears. "It hurts me," he said at one point. He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for his actions.
Two months after the shooting, the soldier was arrested for desertion. Before that, Oakley held the rank of private first class. At the time of his death, however, he was a private.