Spc. Mackenzie Shay, a Pennsylvania National Guard soldier and Slippery Rock University student from New Castle, was killed in a training accident that involved two military vehicles at Fort Indiantown Gap base on Saturday, Oct 22.
According to the National Guard, 20-year-old Shay was a 92F, Army Petroleum Supply Specialist, assigned to the 28th Infantry Division’s Company G, 128th Brigade Support Battalion near Annville, Pa., in Lebanon County.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Spc. Mackenzie Shay's family, friends and colleagues after this tragic accident," said Army Maj. Gen. Mark J. Schindler, adjutant general of the state National Guard. "Our priority right now is taking care of the family and soldiers, ensuring they have all the resources they need during this critical time."
Shay, a 2020 graduate of Mohawk High School, had been serving with the group since Feb. 22, 2019, and was a junior safety management major at SRU.
The crash happened during a routine supply mission between ranges in the fort's more remote training area, according to fort officials.
Three others were injured, but they have since been released from Hershey Medical Center.
The crash is still under investigation.
Gov. Tom Wolf ordered the U.S. and commonwealth flags on the Capitol Complex, all commonwealth facilities, all public buildings and grounds throughout the commonwealth to immediately fly at half-staff in Shay’s honor.
“This is a time of great sorrow for our entire university community,” said William Behre, SRU president. “As we grieve together, please know that there are a variety of services available to students, faculty, and staff.“
SRU students seeking assistance in coping with the loss who would like to speak with someone can contact the SRU Counseling Center at 724-738-2034 or Student Support at 724-738-2121.
For faculty and staff, assistance is available through the State Employee Assistance Program at 800-692-7459.
“Every SRU student contributes to who we are as a university community, and Mackenzie’s loss affects us all,” Behre said. “It is simply heartbreaking. Our community will miss her terribly.”
