Petraeus Launches Investigation Into Aid Worker Death

Compiled from U.S. Central Command and U.S. Forces Afghanistan News Releases

WASHINGTON, Oct. 11, 2010 – The commander of U.S. Forces Afghanistan has launched an investigation into the circumstances that led to the death of a British aid worker, military officials said today.

Linda Norgrove was kidnapped by insurgents Sept. 26 and held in captivity in eastern Afghanistan’s Kunar Province. She died during rescue operations by U.S. forces on Oct. 8.

Army Gen. David H. Petraeus launched the investigation into Norgrove’s death after receiving additional information from the military commander in charge of the rescue operation conducted by U.S. forces in consultation with the British government, officials said.

Initial reports indicated the explosion was caused by a detonation triggered by one of the captors who was in close proximity to Norgrove, officials said. However, the cause of her death could not be conclusively determined by subsequent review of surveillance footage and discussions with rescue team members.

At Petraeus’ request, Marine Corps Gen. James N. Mattis, commander of U.S. Central Command, has appointed Army Maj. Gen. Joseph L. Votel, of U.S. Special Operations Command, to conduct the investigation.

The investigation team will work in close cooperation with British authorities.

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