A member of the US Embassy’s Local Guard Force was shot last night around 1:45 a.m. while he was on duty protecting an embassy off-site facility, is dead, the embassy has confirmed.

The unnamed guard succumbed to his wounds early this morning after unsuccessful emergency treatment at the Juba Teaching Hospital.

It’s not clear who shot him and why.

According to a statement to Eye Radio, the deceased was a highly regarded member of the embassy community, a dedicated employee who rendered true and faithful service for nearly 10 years.

“The work of the US Embassy and USAID is made possible each day by the outstanding efforts of 320 South Sudanese members of our team,” Ambassador Molly Phee said in the statement.

“They love their country and support the US government and the American people as we endeavor to promote peace and development in South Sudan.

“Today, as we mourn the loss of our dear colleague, we are reminded that too many South Sudanese have lost loved ones due to the recent conflict.  We will redouble our efforts to help South Sudan overcome its current challenges.”

Information about the location of the said embassy off-site facility where the man was shot is unclear.