One Navy SEAL candidate died and a second was hospitalized after they completed the “Hell Week” that ends the first phase of assessment of the special operations force candidates.
Naval Special Warfare Command said in a statement to news outlets on Feb. 4 that the SEAL candidate’s cause of death is not yet known. The injured candidate is in stable condition at the Naval Medical Center San Diego, officials said.
The Navy confirmed on Sunday that 24-year-old Seaman Kyle Mullen died at Sharp Coronado Hospital in California on Friday.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to Seaman Mullen’s family for their loss,” Rear Admiral H.W. Howard III said in the statement. “We are extending every form of support we can to the Mullen family and Kyle’s BUD/S classmates,” Howard added.
The trainees “were not actively training when they reported symptoms and were transported to receive emergency care,” the Navy said.
“My prayers are with the family and loved ones of the deceased during this very difficult time, and I wish for a full recovery of the other candidate reported injured yesterday,” House Rep. Scott Peters (D-Calif.) said in a statement, local media reported.
He added: “These courageous, talented sailors were on their way to becoming some of our country’s most elite military personnel. We must find out what transpired so we can do whatever we can to keep others safe. In the days and weeks ahead, I look forward to learning more as the Navy conducts a thorough investigation.”
