U.S. Soldier Kills 15 Afghan Civilians

A soldier killed at least 15 Afghanistan civilians Sunday morning in a rogue attack.

Image Source: Stars and Stripes BY ALYSSA CARTEE ANCHOR VICTORIA CRAIG At least 15 Afghan civilians are dead this morning after a U.S. soldier went on a rogue attack. The number of reported dead ranges from 15 to 17. The attack happened around 3 a.m. when the soldier left base. NBC reports. “According to Afghan officials, not only did he leave the base fully armed, he went into the homes of Afghan villagers at Panjwai District while they were sleeping -- shooting at men women and children.” BBC reports this kind of attack is extremely rare. “We’re more used to seeing Afghan soldiers or Afghan police turning their guns on their fallen allies than this kind of thing. … This kind of rogue event is almost unknown.” The US military released a statement saying this was a “deeply regrettable incident.”   CBS points out the attack could further damage an already damaged relationship. “But the timing of the attack could not have been worse.  Last month Afghans held mass protests against American troops after US soldiers mistakenly burned copies of the Koran.” A military official told CNN he believes the attack does not mean an extended conflict with the country. “These sorts of incidents sour the relationship and if anything they expedite our departure.  Hopefully, Karzai is right in that they can handle the threat.” The soldier turned himself in and is in custody.  The incident is under investigation.