The Islamic State released a video on Sunday where a masked militant can be seen standing over the severed head of former U.S. ranger soldier and aid worker, Peter Kassig.

The White House confirmed on Sunday afternoon (GMT) that the body seen in the ISIS video is that of Peter Kassig.

According to The New York Times, Kassig “disappeared over a year ago at a checkpoint in northeastern Syria while delivering medical supplies.”

Kassig, also known as Abdul-Rahman Kassig, first arrived in the Middle East as a U.S soldier. He returned as a medical worker to help war victims in Syria before going missing, CNN reports.

Peter Kassig is the fifth victim of hostage beheading from the Islamic State. His executioner is believed to be “Jihadi John”, though it has not yet been confirmed.

Images: Melvin A.