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AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy — One airman was killed and another injured in a car crash early Sunday morning that occurred near one of the entrances to Aviano Air Base.

Airman 1st Class Dennis A. Felton II, a 21-year-old from Cleveland who joined the Air Force last year and came to Aviano in February, died in the accident, according to a release from the 31st Fighter Wing. Felton, a member of the 31st Security Forces Squadron, was a passenger in a car driven by a member of the 31st Logistics Readiness Squadron, who was briefly treated at a local hospital and released.

“We are deeply saddened by this loss,” said Brig. Gen. Jon A. Norman, who took over command of the wing last week. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and many others affected. We will work closely with our Italian counterparts to determine the cause of this tragedy in hopes to help prevent such occurrences in the future.”

The accident took place near the intersection of what Americans refer to as the “A-P highway” (SP-7) and Via dei Menegoz — commonly known as “off-limits road.” The intersection is not far from the base’s north gate, which is serving as its main entrance while the main gate is closed for construction.

The accident occurred at about 5 a.m., according to Maj. Erick Saks, the wing’s chief of public affairs.

American authorities are assisting Italian police with the accident investigation, Saks said.

Funeral services are pending.

news@stripes.com

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