US army fires Fort Hood officers and orders policy shift following 25 deaths

Suspensions and demand for changes prompted by widespread pattern of violence, including murder and sexual assault

The US army has fired or suspended 14 officers and enlisted soldiers at its Fort Hood, Texas, base and ordered policy changes to address chronic failures of leadership that contributed to a widespread pattern of violence, including murder, sexual assault and harassment.

In a sweeping condemnation of Fort Hood's command hierarchy, the army secretary, Ryan McCarthy, fired three top commanders and suspended two others pending a further investigation.