The military is conducting an inquiry into the death of a California-based Marine whose body was discovered in his barracks earlier this month.
Christopher Hutchings, a resident of Colorado, was discovered dead in his quarters on February 5 at Camp Pendleton, according to KKTV in Colorado Springs.
According to a source, Hutchings’ death is being investigated because of suspicious circumstances.
The Director of Communication Strategy and Operations for the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, Major Mason Englehart, confirmed that PFC Christopher Hutchings was declared dead in his barracks on Sunday, February 5.
The young Marine, who entered the Marines in 2022, was assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 372 of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton.
The Armed Forces Medical Examiner will now investigate his death, with support from the Navy Criminal Investigation Service (NCIS)
His death is now under investigation, and the cause of death has not been disclosed. “We take any loss of life very seriously and extend our deepest condolences to those affected,” stated Major Mason Englehart to the news source.
The Post has requested response from Camp Pendleton.
On Thursday, Hutchings’ body was returned to Colorado, where community members lined the highways and waved flags in his honor.
His funeral will be held on February 26, according to a Facebook post from the Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office.
“We request that citizens line the routes waving either the American flag or the flag of the United States Marine Corps in honor of this young Marine.”
The Buena Vista Police Department published a video of Marine Hutchings being escorted home.
“Chris, your hometown is still pulling for you. Our thoughts and prayers are with your loved ones. “Rest in peace,” stated the department.
»The military is probing the death of a Marine found in barracks, according to a report«