US soldier stationed in South Korea killed in car crash, officials say

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS/Gray News) - A soldier from South Carolina stationed in South Korea has died, according to officials.

A spokesperson for the 8th Army said Staff Sgt. Dorian Baker died after a crash involving a single car in Pyeongtaek on June 29.

Baker was a signal support systems specialist and was stationed at Camp Humphreys.

He was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4-2 Attack Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division Combat Aviation Brigade, 2nd Infantry ROK/U.S. Combined Division since January 2023.

Baker was originally from Columbia, South Carolina, and a 2015 graduate of Columbia High School, according to his family.

He is survived by Tianna Baker, his wife and high school sweetheart. He is also survived by his son, mother and two brothers. He and his wife were also expecting another child.

“The 4-2 Attack Battalion is deeply saddened by the loss of Sgt. Baker,” Lt. Col. William Carrion, commander of 4-2 Attack Battalion, said. “Sgt. Baker leaves behind a profound impact of friendship and camaraderie felt by all who had the privilege of serving alongside him. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and fellow Soldiers as we mourn this loss together.”

Baker joined the U.S. Army in Dec. 2014.

His awards and decorations include four Army Achievement Medals, one Certificate of Achievement, two Army Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, Korean Defense Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.

Baker was laid to rest in his hometown of Columbia on Saturday.

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