Re: Concern Over Maupin's Fate

Date: June 28, 2004

" Matt Maupin special section

The Tri-state is on edge about the status of a captured local soldier, after news came early Monday morning that he may be dead.

9News heard nothing about the status of Pfc. Matt Maupin, 20, since this videotape a released a week after maupin was taken hostage.

Then, just after 5 a.m. Monday, 9 News received a phone call from ABC News saying Maupin had been executed. At this hour, the military-family spokesperson said he has no official confirmation on Maupin's status.

ABC News employees told 9News there is a videotape of Maupin being shot in the back of the head, but 9News has not seen that videotape.

Maupin was taken hostage in Iraq 80 days ago.

Two Army officers are posted at the home of Keith and Carolyn Maupin Monday, shielding the family from the media and answering all phone calls. Two Union Township police officers are outside the home, keeping unwanted visitors away.

The Maupin's driveway on Schoolhouse Road remains full of cars presumably owned by friends and family members who have stopped by to lend support.

Monday's word of Maupin's status coincides with the US handover of sovereignty to an interim Iraqi government, which took place two days earlier than expected.

Maupin, a member of the 724th Transportation Company and a Glen Este High School graduate, was captured April 9 after his convoy was attacked. A videotape of Maupin's capture was released in mid-April.

Stay with WCPO-TV for updates to this story.

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