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Suspected friendly fire kills 5 U.S. troops in Afghanistan

Five U.S. troops were killed Monday in Afghanistan by suspected friendly fire. An investigation is underway.

By JC Finley
A U.S. Soldier with the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division provides security during a battle drill at Forward Operating Base Lightning in Paktia province, Afghanistan, Oct. 3, 2013. (UPI/ Sgt. J.A. Moeller/ U.S. Army)
A U.S. Soldier with the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division provides security during a battle drill at Forward Operating Base Lightning in Paktia province, Afghanistan, Oct. 3, 2013. (UPI/ Sgt. J.A. Moeller/ U.S. Army) | License Photo

KABUL, Afghanistan, June 10 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Defense acknowledged Tuesday that friendly fire may be to blame for the deaths of five U.S. troops in Afghanistan on Monday.

The American troops were part of the International Security Assistance Force and were engaged in a security operation when the five were killed.

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The ISAF Casualty Report for Monday noted that "The casualties occurred during a security operation when their unit came into contact with enemy forces. Tragically, there is the possibility that fratricide may have been involved."

An investigation is underway, both ISAF and the Pentagon confirmed.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of these fallen," Pentagon Press Secretary Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby said Tuesday.

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