PRESS RELEASE HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES AFGHANISTAN Kabul, Afghanistan Phone: [phone]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 29, 2009

Release Number 20092901-02

Afghan civilian killed in accident

Kabul, Afghanistan — An Afghan civilian was killed in a traffic accident in Herat Province today when his vehicle collided, with a mine-resistant, ambushed-protected vehicle or MRAP carrying coalition forces.

The incident is under investigation; however, initial reports indicate that the civilian vehicle was travelling at a high rate of speed when it collided with the MRAP after cresting a hill, slamming on its breaks, and stopping sideways across both lanes traffic. The MRAP was reported to have swerved left to avoid a cliff on the right side of the road only to collide with the van.

“We take it very seriously any time an Afghan civilian is injured or killed and coalition forces are involved,” said Brig. Gen. Steven P. Huber, Combined Joint Task Force Phoenix Commander. “We will work with local law enforcement officials to determine the facts regarding this accident and take action as appropriate once the accident investigation is completed.”

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United States Forces Afghanistan's mission, in coordination with NATO's International Security Assistance Force, is to conduct operations to defeat terrorist networks and insurgents by developing effective governance and building the Afghan National Security Force. Effective security throughout the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan facilitates continued regional stability and increases economic development for the people of Afghanistan.

Contact Information - US Forces Afghanistan Public Affairs Office

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Afghanistan

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