Coroner identifies soldier who died after jumping off bridge

The 19-year-old soldier, assigned to Fort Moore, who died from his injuries after jumping off a bridge in Georgia has been identified.

Cutter Baird jumped off the Dillingham Street Bridge, which crosses the Chattahoochee River that separates Georgia and Alabama, and hit the water chest first.

When Baird exited the water, he collapsed from a lack of oxygen.

He was transported to Piedmont Columbus Regional Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

“Unfortunately, he landed like a belly flop. That’s like landing on concrete from that distance, which caused blunt-force trauma to his chest,” Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan said.

“Let’s just keep this family and friends in our prayers,” he added.

Bryan ruled the death an accident and said it’s not the first time jumping from a bridge in the area has resulted in death.

Family members from Cutter’s home in Texas have announced his loss and said his funeral is being planned.

“We just wanted to let the community know that we lost Cutter yesterday afternoon in a tragic accident,” Michele Baird wrote on Facebook. “Arrangements will be made and posted in the near future,” she added.

Fort Moore has yet to officially identify Cutter Baird or release any details about his Army service.

In 2021, Baird went missing from his home in Goldthwaite, Texas but was later found by the Mills County Sheriff’s Office.

“Cutter Baird has been located and is on his way home safe and sound. The Mills County Sheriff’s Office and the family wants to thank all those who helped in the effort,” the Mills County Sheriff’s Office wrote at the time.

One of Cutter’s former teachers suggested he overcame many struggles in his personal life and was a courageous young man.

“This boy overcame obstacle after obstacle and finally joined the Army and fulfilled the beginning of his dream. He was super smart, opinionated, and strong,” Vince Gilbert wrote.

“He was driven and stuck up for the underdog. He had an addictive grin and knew how to use it. He was just Cutter in everything he did. I am glad that we had several conversations about Jesus Christ, and I know, without a doubt, that he is basking in the Glory of God this minute. I will miss you, Cutter Baird. I love you.”

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