Body of fourth US soldier killed in Niger found

His body was found and identified Friday after an extensive search. Four Niger security forces were also killed.

U.S. officials say they believe extremists linked to the Islamic State group were responsible for the attack about 200 kilometers north of Niger's capital of Niamey.

The joint patrol of U.S. and Niger forces were leaving a meeting with tribal leaders and were in trucks. They were ambushed by 40-50 militants in vehicles and on motorcycles.

Eight Niger soldiers and two U.S. troops were wounded. The officials weren't authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.

The soldiers were part of a mission to train, advise and assist troops in the African nation. They were attacked by hostile fire while on a reconnaissance patrol.

All four were assigned to the 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne).

The department identified the three as:

–Staff Sgt. Bryan C. Black, 35, of Puyallup, Washington

–Staff Sgt. Jeremiah W. Johnson, 39, of Springboro, Ohio

–Staff Sgt. Dustin M. Wright, 29, of Lyons, Georgia

–Sgt. La David Johnson, 25, of Miami Gardens, Florida