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Home: news: Safety: Army investigates paratrooper mishap

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Army investigates paratrooper mishap

Wright was being treated for fractured ribs and a cut on the chin, U.S. Army Special Operations Command officials said. The 28-year-old soldier from New Bern is assigned to the 528th Special Operations Support Battalion.

"He is doing real well," said Barbara Ashley, a USASOC spokeswoman. "He said he has received a lot of support from his family and his friends in the unit and the Special Operations Support Command."

The accident happened about 8 p.m. aboard a C-130 Hercules cargo plane flying over Moore County, officials said.

"He was ejected from the aircraft due to the activation of his reserve parachute inside the aircraft during an airborne operation," said Sgt. 1st Class Pamela Smith, a spokesman for U.S. Army Special Operations command.

Wright's main parachute opened during his fall, officials said.

The battalion is reviewing safety procedures in airborne operations and the proper handling of reserve parachutes in aircraft, Smith said.

"Being a jumpmaster is dangerous," Smith said. "The command regrets that this type of accident happened." Wright is declining interviews, Smith said.

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