Former Navy SEAL sniper, Chris Kyle was shot and killed by a veteran who suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2013.
His death was confirmed by FITCO Cares, a foundation Kyle helped start. The foundation works with soldiers who return from duty to help them cope with PTSD.
Kyle was the author of the best-selling book, "American Sniper: Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in US Military History."
Deemed to be the deadliest military sniper in U.S. history, Kyle, 38, was killed in Texas while working with former soldier to help him cope with PTSD. WFAA-TV reports that the shooter is 25-year-old Eddie Routh, a Marine.
"Chris Kyle helped establish this foundation and we are committed to make sure his memory lives on forever .. Please pray for all those who loved Chris. He will be forever missed." - FITCO Cares statement
USA Today reports that Chris Kyle died at a firing range in Glen Rose, Texas and his neighbor was also shot and killed by Routh while at the shooting range.
Kyle was awarded two Silver Stars and five Bronze Stars with Valor for his time served in the military. In his book, "American Sniper," he wrote that his sniper accuracy was so deadly that there was a price put on his head by Iraqi insurgents.
"Our foundation, FITCO Cares, this country and most importantly, his wife Taya and their children, lost a dedicated father and husband, a lifelong patriot and an American hero."
When his book came out in 2012, Chris Kyle spoke about his dreams to the Dallas Morning News.
"When I grew up, I only had two dreams. One was to be a cowboy and another was to be in the military. I grew up extremely patriotic."
FITCO Cares states that condolences can be left on their website here. You can also donate to help veterans fight PTSD through the site here.
Rest in peace, Chris Kyle.
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