Drugs suspected after 2 paratroopers found dead at Fort Bragg

Spc. Joshua Diamond, 35, of Plymouth, Mass., and Pfc. Matthew Disney, 20, of Aberdeen, Md. were field artillery radar operators assigned to 2nd Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team.

“At this point in the investigation, we do have credible information that the soldiers were involved with illicit drugs,” said Chris Grey, spokesman for U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, which is investigating the case.

Medical personnel were trying to determine exactly what types of drugs may have been involved, and investigators are also checking to see if other soldiers may have contributed to the deaths.

Family members say Disney was last seen about 11 p.m. last Thursday. His friends say online that he had a smile that could light up a room and a gentle kindness that would bring joy to anyone he met.

Disney’s awards and decorations include the Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Combat Action Badge and the Army Parachutist Badge.

Diamond is a combat veteran, having deployed to Iraq in 2020. His awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal with Combat Device, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Combat Action Badge and the Army Parachutist Badge.

“Our greatest strength is our paratroopers, and these losses are a tragedy,” Col. Phillip J. Kiniery III, 2nd Brigade Combat Team commander, said in a statement. “We mourn the passing of Matthew and Joshua. They remain part of our family of Falcon Brigade paratroopers. Our thoughts and prayers are with their loved ones and fellow paratroopers during this difficult time.