Recently, military officials announced the tragic deaths of three Marines stationed at Camp LeJeune in Pender County, North Carolina.
Lance Cpl. Tanner Kaltenberg, 19, Lance Cpl. Merax Dockery, 23, and Lance Cpl. Ivan Garcia, 23 were found dead in a vehicle on July 23rd near the base and were declared dead at the scene.
The cause of death is still being investigated by authorities and Brigadier General Michael E. McWilliams is deeply saddened by their loss and has extended his condolences to their families during this difficult time.
The Marines were assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 2 which is based out of Camp LeJeune – approximately 40 minutes away from where they were found in Hampstead that morning.
Officers with the Pender County Sheriff’s Office responded to a missing person call regarding one of the marines.
Sgt Chester Ward stated there was no indication of foul play or any other criminal activity but cautioned that an autopsy report would help provide further answers as to what happened leading up to their untimely deaths.
Brigadier General McWilliams has expressed his grief for the family members left behind and promised them support while dealing with this devastating tragedy.
He said “Our focus is providing the necessary resources and support to those impacted by their tragic loss as they navigate this extremely difficult time.”
McWilliams added:
“[The] circumstances surrounding their deaths are currently under investigation” according to the Marine Corps media release.
