Emotional homecoming for family of Central Florida soldier killed in training accident

A 19-year-old Central Florida soldier who tragically died in a training accident is finally back home.

Army Specialist Mariyah Collington’s remains arrived at Orlando Executive Airport on Thursday. It was an emotional homecoming for her family, who had been waiting for weeks to bring her back to Tavares.

Channel 9 spoke with Mariyah’s cousin, Cherlette McCullough, who shared personal photos of the young soldier. The pictures showed Mariyah’s vibrant personality, from her days as a little girl cheerleader to her sweet 16, prom, and proudly serving in uniform.

McCullough said watching the flag-draped casket come off the plane was incredibly hard…

Story continues

TRENDING NOW

LATEST LOCAL NEWS