Friends and family are mourning the death of a local soldier killed in Afghanistan.

23 year old Sergeant Josue Hernandez - Chavez died Monday in a helicopter crash. Hernandez- Chavez is survived by his mother, father and two sisters.

They all live in Las Vegas. Friday, the family released a statement saying, "Our family appreciates the overwhelming and sincere outpouring of sympathy from the local community at this very difficult time."

Family members also asked for the media to respect their privacy.