Northboro Soldier Killed By Enemy Fire In Afghanistan

AFGHANISTAN (CBS) – A Northboro resident was killed this week by enemy fire while serving as specialist with the United States Army in Afghanistan.

The Department of Defense announced that Spc. Brian K. Arsenault, 28, of Northboro, died on Thursday while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Ghazni, Afghanistan.

Arsenault died from injuries sustained when his unit was engaged by enemy small-arms fire, the Department of Defense said.

On Friday, Dain Volsung posted a tribute to Aresenault on Facebook, including a photo and the following post.

We lost an amazing person and solid warrior today. Brian you were one of the funniest and most level headed people I know. You were a breath a fresh air, especially when life was sucking. My heartfelt condolences goes out to your family. You will be sorely missed and never forgotten. Rest easy brother.

While serving in Afghanistan, Arsenault was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division based out of Fort Bragg, N.C.

An online fundraising campaign was set up to support the Arsenault family. In about 19 hours the page was nearly at its goal of $3,000.

"I am amazed by all the support in such a short period of time, thank you everyone who is donating," page creator Andrew Lawton wrote on the fundraising site.

"This lets his family know that they are not alone and everyone is here to support them and truly appreciate their freedom and thanks for everything Brian did for them."

Dan Arsenault, Brian's father, gave a tearful address to reporters outside his Northboro home on Friday.

"As a family the sorrow is unbearable but we must be strong for our son, who has given his life for a cause he believed in," said Dan Arsenault.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Kim Tunnicliffe reports

MORE LOCAL NEWS FROM CBS BOSTON