Fellow Solider, Teen Charged In Murder Of Tennessee Soldier

Two people have been arrested in connection to the death of a 20-year-old Fort Drum solider from Tennessee. Pvt. Jamaal Mellish, another Fort Drum soldier, and a 16-year-old boy are charged in the murder and kidnapping of Cpl. Hayden Harris, of Guys, Tennessee, about 100 miles east of Memphis.

Harris was found in New Jersey with a gunshot wound to the head one day after being reported missing. Investigators said he was meeting another solider for "some type of vehicle exchange," but they believe he was abducted by the solider instead.

Though his life was tragically cut short, Harris earned several awards and decorations, including two Army Achievement Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.

"His death is tremendous loss for his loved ones, this division, and our nation," said Brigadier Gen. Brett Funck, acting commander for Fort Drum and the 10th Mountain Division.

Harris was an infantryman with the 1st Squadron, 89th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team. He trained at Fort Benning in Georgia before joining the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum last year. Following his death, Harris was promoted from specialist to corporal.

"Corporal Harris had excellent teammates in the 1-89 Cavalry Regiment," said Funck. "I am proud of their quick action and hope that they can find some comfort in knowing they ultimately helped law enforcement officers located Corporal Harris and greatly empowered the investigation into his disappearance."

The name of the 16 year old involved has not been made public. According to the New Jersey Herald, the two are facing multiple charges, including first-degree murder and kidnapping, second-degree weapons charges, and more.

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