Spc. Priscilla Ann East, a 32-year-old female, tragically lost her life on Thursday, February 2, 2017, in a violent shooting incident in Oak Grove, Kentucky. At the time of her death, she was an active duty soldier stationed at Fort Campbell. Also killed in the incident was Spc. Christopher Ryan Hoch, 28, another soldier from Fort Campbell. Shortly after the double homicide, authorities arrested Priscilla's estranged husband, 32-year-old Jeremy Demar, who was subsequently charged with the
murders of both individuals.
The shooting occurred at the home of Christopher Hoch, where Priscilla was visiting. According to Hoch's fiancée, Dominique House, who was also an active duty soldier, she and Priscilla were best friends. House clarified that there was no romantic relationship between East and Hoch. She explained that Priscilla would often come to her home when she felt unsafe due to issues with her estranged husband. House, who was present during the altercation, sustained a broken collarbone, and her 16-year-old brother was also injured. She came forward to dispel rumors on social media that suggested an affair, stating that both victims were undeserving of their tragic fate.
Priscilla Ann East, originally from Missouri City, Texas, had joined the Army in March 2011 and had been stationed at Fort Campbell since August 2014. Before her military service, she worked as a Registered Vet Tech. Her military honors included the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon. She was a mother to a son, Nikolaus Kaleb Demar. Following her death, a Celebration of Life was held in Clarksville, and she was laid to rest with Full Military Honors at Houston National Cemetery in Texas. In her memory, her family suggested that contributions be made to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence or any women's safe house.
