CLEARFIELD, Utah - A Utah soldier died in a non-combat incident in Qatar this week.
44-year-old First Sgt. Tracy L. Stapley died July 3 at Camp As Sayliyah in Qatar, the Department of Defense said in a statement released Thursday.
The DoD hasn't released any more details about Stapley's death except to say he died in a non-combat related incident, and his death is under investigation.
"The only thing I could get out of them is that it's still under investigation," said Stapley's father Elwin Stapley.
Stapley was assigned to the 308th Medical Logistics Company in St. George. The 26-year veteran had been stationed in Qatar since February.
"When he took upon a responsibility, it was also a commitment. And he carried through with it very diligently and did an excellent job at everything he did," Elwin Stapley said.
He leaves behind a wife and two children.
"I don't think it's really hit home that he's not going to be part of my life and such anymore until after I get to see him when he comes home," Stapley said.
Utah Governor Gary Herbert issued a statement, saying, "Jeanette and I join the people of Utah and express our heartfelt prayers and thoughts for the Stapley familly as together we mourn the loss of First Sergeant Tracy Stapley, a beloved son, husband and father.
"As the nation just celebrated our Independence, may we always remember and honor those who have lived and died for the cause of freedom."
