18-year-old Army Ranger Kristofer Thomas died when the Chinook helicopter he was in crashed on Sunday. Thomas graduated from Roseville High School in January of 2006. Principal Brad Basham says Thomas finished high school earlier than his classmates. 

"Last year he worked very hard to get out early so he could get into the military and he stayed in contact with a couple of his teachers and his counselor here at Roseville High School calling on a regular basis and before he went to Afghanistan he made a special trip to Roseville High School to visit the classroom of one of his favorite teachers."

Thomas was among 8-soldiers killed in the helicopter crash which happened in southeastern Afghanistan.

Military officials say the helicopter was not shot down and that the crash is still under investigation.