The Defense Department has identified the fourth U.S. soldier killed in Niger when a joint patrol of American and Niger forces was ambushed by militants believed linked to the Islamic State group.

  • Florida native was 4th US soldier killed in Niger ambush
  • Sgt. La David Johnson & 3 other US troops died during ambush
  • Sgt. Johnson is a native of Miami Gardens, FL

Officials said Sgt. La David Johnson, 25, died from wounds sustained during enemy contact. He was assigned to 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) on Fort Bragg. 

The military says his body was found Friday after an extensive search. The bodies of the three other U.S. troops were recovered shortly after Wednesday's attack, which also killed four Niger military members.

The U.S. and Niger forces were leaving a meeting with tribal leaders when they were ambushed. The incident is currently under investigation. 

Johnson, a native of Miami Gardens, FL. enlisted in the Army in January 2014 as a Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic. His awards and decorations include the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Army Parachutist Badge, the Army Air Assault Badge, the Driver and Mechanic Badge, and the Marksmanship Qualification Badge – Sharpshooter with Rifle. 

"The Bush Hog formation was made better because of Johnson's faithful service and we are focused on caring for the Johnson family during this difficult period," said Lt. Col. David Painter, Commander of 2nd Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne). 

U.S. special operations forces have been working with Niger's military in the fight extremists in the African region.

Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.