Columbus  Dispatch -- ZANESVILLE, Ohio — An Ohio soldier killed in Iraq when the Humvee he was riding in overturned in a ravine loved sports and wanted to go into law enforcement, his uncle said.

Army Pfc. David C. Armstrong, 21, of Zanesville, died Thursday in Baghdad, along with fellow soldier Pfc. Tyler Butler of East Liverpool, said Scott Armstrong, who was speaking on behalf of the Armstrong family.

Scott Armstrong said his nephew played football and baseball in high school, practiced karate and loved to ride motorcycles and four-wheelers.

David Armstrong was born in Galion and moved to Zanesville with his parents, Dave and Marcie Armstrong, when he was a preschooler. He graduated from Maysville High School in 2004, his family said.

His father said the Humvee crash is still under investigation. Military officials informed the family of David Armstrong's death on Friday morning.

Scott Armstrong said his nephew joined the military because it promised the education he needed to go into law enforcement. He loved animals, including his dogs Bo, Razor and Gage, and wanted to be a law enforcement canine handler.

David Armstrong, who was assigned to the 372nd MP Battalion, 57th MP Company, left for Iraq in June of last year. He was scheduled to return on leave this week and to finish his tour in June.

Scott Armstrong said the family had put off celebrating Christmas, hoping to include his nephew when he visited home.

David Armstrong was married to his high school sweetheart, Tasia Warne, his uncle said.

"David was a very special young man with a bright future ahead of him," Scott Armstrong said. "Everyone is devastated by his loss. He is sadly missed by his entire family and many, many friends."

Butler, also killed Thursday, was a 2004 graduate of East Liverpool High School, and was to meet his newborn son, Austin, when he returned on leave Sunday. The baby was born Jan. 23.