Family of Michigan Mother Killed in Syria Not Sure Why She Was There

Converted to Islam several years ago

DETROIT (AP)—A 33-year-old Michigan mother killed during fighting in Syria became interested in the Middle East after converting to Islam and marrying an Arab immigrant several years ago, relatives said Friday, but her family lost touch with her in recent months and had no idea she had gone to overseas. After Nicole Lynn Mansfield's marriage ended, she remained Muslim and visited Dubai several years ago to learn about Arab culture, said her aunt, Monica Mansfield-Speelman. She said she had not spoken to her niece since September, and last she knew Mansfield was in Kentucky.