Remains of Second Missing US Soldier Recovered in Morocco After Multinational Search Operation

The remains of a second United States Army soldier who went missing during military exercises in Morocco have been recovered, bringing an end to a large-scale multinational search mission involving air, naval, and artificial intelligence-assisted search assets.

According to the US Army Europe and Africa, the soldier was identified as Mariyah Symone Collington, a 19-year-old specialist from Tavares, Florida.

Military officials said Collington and another soldier, Kendrick Lamont Key Jr, died after reportedly falling from a cliff while hiking off duty during the training deployment in Morocco.

Multinational Search Effort

The recovery operation involved coordinated support from United States and Moroccan authorities, alongside multinational military personnel participating in the exercises. Officials stated that aircraft, naval resources, drones, and AI-supported mapping technology were deployed during the search.

The US Army said the mission continued for several days in difficult terrain before recovery teams located Collington’s remains on Wednesday.

Soldiers Were Participating in Military Exercises

The soldiers had been in Morocco as part of joint military exercises involving international forces. Authorities have not publicly released the exact location of the incident or additional operational details surrounding the fall.

Military officials confirmed that both soldiers were off duty at the time of the accident.

Condolences From Military Officials

In a statement, US Army Europe and Africa extended condolences to the families, friends, and fellow service members affected by the tragedy. Commanders praised the multinational rescue teams and Moroccan authorities for their support during the operation.

The deaths have renewed attention on safety risks associated with off-duty activities during overseas military deployments, particularly in remote or mountainous terrain.

The US military has not announced whether a formal investigation into the incident has been completed. Further details have not been officially released.