(CNN) -- American teacher Ronnie Smith has been shot and killed in Benghazi, according to the Facebook page of the international school in Libya where he worked. The U.S. State Department confirmed the killing and identified the educator as Ronald Thomas Smith II. "The untimely death of Ronnie Smith has been felt by the whole school community," the International School Benghazi posted on its Facebook page. "He was a much loved teacher who supported students in their learning and always had time to help when asked. Ronnie was a professional who gave his time freely and without question. We do not understand why this has happened and it is extremely difficult for his students and his colleagues to accept."
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NEW: Four assailants opened fire, killing him instantaneously, Interior Ministry says
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NEW: Authorities vow to bring those responsible to justice
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International School Benghazi mourns teacher Ronnie Smith's "untimely death"
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Benghazi is where militants attacked a U.S. diplomatic mission in September 2012
This is a tragedy, he and everyone in Libya (@placeholder and non Libyan) don't deserve this.