Air Force identifies airman found dead in off-base home

Staff Sgt. Zachary Townsend was found dead Monday in his off-base residence near Columbia, South Carolina, according to a press release from Shaw Air Force Base.

A crew chief assigned to the 495th Fighter Group, Townsend joined the Air Force on July 15, 2008.

“We are brokenhearted to have lost a valued member of our team,” said Col. Michael Dean, commander of the 495th, in the statement. “The 495th FG considers itself a family, and this loss is felt by each of us deeply. Our condolences are with all those who grieve with us during this time of tragedy.”

Officials do not suspect foul play, but the incident remains under investigation by the Richland County Coroner’s Office, officials at Shaw said.

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