Soldier Charged with Murder of Roommate at Fort Drum
Ashton’s Sister Speaks Out as Community Mourns and Seeks Answers
According to True Crime News, soldier at Fort Drum, N.Y. has been charged with killing his 21-year-old roommate Spc. Jacob Ashton. Ashton was found dead on August 5, 2024 at the Army base where he lived with Spc. Riley Birbilas. The one who handling the case is Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division and Birbilas is charged with premeditated murder and obstruction of justice. Both soldiers had returned from a nine-month deployment in Iraq and became roommates in April.
Ashton was set to end his military service in December and hoped to become a police officer or firefighter. His sister Alaina Ustupski spoke to WWNY-TV about her heartbreak highlighting the painful irony of Ashton returning safely from Iraq only to be killed by someone he lived with. Ashton was honored for his service with several awards including the Army Commendation Medal with C Device and the Combat Infantry Badge recognizing his bravery and commitment.
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21-Year-Old Soldier Found Dead at Fort Drum, NY, Roommate Spc. Riley Birbilas Charged with Premeditated Murder and Obstruction of Justice! (PHOTO: The New York Times)
Fort Drum Community Mourns Ashton’s Death and Awaits Investigation Updates
The community at Fort Drum is in shock over Ashton’s death. Col. Anthony Gore expressed deep sadness and pledged to support Ashton’s family and fellow soldiers. Gore stressed the importance of honoring Ashton’s life and service during this difficult time. Birbilas is currently in custody at Oneida County Jail and the community along with the Army base, is mourning the loss while waiting for further details about the ongoing investigation.
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