FREDONIA -- A local soldier has died in Afghanistan, the result of a roadside bombing.
Fredonia native Jonathan Gollnitz passed away earlier this week while deployed with the Army.
Gollnitz was previously enlisted in the Navy before joining the Army.
Fredonia High School Principal Todd Crandall confirmed Gollnitz was a student at Fredonia Central School up through 11th grade before he transferred to Levant Christian School in 2003 for his senior year.
"The few faculty members that recall (Gollnitz) had positive things to say. He was personable, had good character and they enjoyed him in the classroom," Crandall said.
Siblings of Gollnitz still attend the middle and high school and the district held a moment of silence Thursday for the family.
"Our big focus is to comfort (family members) and honor Jon," Crandall said.
Crandall said a tragedy of this nature hits close to home.
"It stops you in your tracks and brings reality home," he said.