Former fighter Scott Wirtz, one of four Americans killed in Syria
Three of the four Americans killed by an explosion in Syria on Wednesday were a Soldier, a Sailor and a Civilian working for the Defense Department.
Army Chief Warrant Officer Jonathan R. Farmer, 37, Navy Chief Cryptologic Technician Shannon M. Kent, 35 and Scott A. Wirtz were identified by the Department of Defense as three of the Americans killed while “conducting a routine patrol” in the Syrian city of Manbij, near the Turkish border.
The fourth American killed in the blast has not been identified.
Wirtz had experience competing in mixed martial arts. A search of various online databases concludes the man from St. Louis, Missouri competed in MMA in 2009, winning a majority decision over Jarod Foust at Battles for Fame.
Officials from Shamrock FC (MMA promotion) posted:
“We are saddened by the news today of the passing a former fighter, supporter and friend of #ShamrockFC
Scotty Wirtz was killed on Wednesday in Syria while working for the Department of Defense. He was a former Navy Seal and graduate of De Smet High School in St. Louis.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family. Also to all the veterans and service men and women risking theirs lives for our country.
#Navyseal #MMA #Veteran #Navy #fighter”
Wirtz was working as operations support specialist for the Defense Intelligence Agency when he died.
ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack through recognized social media accounts, claiming a suicide bomber wearing an explosive vest attacked coalition forces.
