The death of a U.S. Marine found February 5 in his Camp Pendleton barracks is considered suspicious by investigators, according to a KKTV report.
Christopher Hutchings graduated from his Colorado high school early in order to report for the U.S. Marines Corps basic training late last year, the report noted.
The Armed Forces Medical Examiner is the lead investigation authority, assisted by Naval Criminal Investigative Service, according to the report.
“I can confirm that PFC Christopher Hutchings was pronounced deceased in his barracks on Sunday, February 5th,” Director of Communication Strategy and Operations for the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Major Mason Englehart explained in an email to KKTV. “He was assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton.”
“His death is still under investigation at this time and a cause of death has not been released,” Englehart continued. “We take all loss of life very seriously and extend our deepest condolences to those affected.”
PFC Hutchins’ body was escorted by local law enforcement on his return to his hometown. People lined roads and waved flags to honor the former resident.
“One of the blessings of living in a small town is that when something like this happens, a whole community will come out to show their love and support, even if it means standing in freezing temperatures,” Buena Vista Police remarked Friday on the department’s Facebook page. The post included a video of the lengthy procession of law enforcement vehicles accompanying the Marine’s return to Buena Vista.
Hutchins was reportedly a standout wrestler during his years at Buena Vista High School. Former teammates and coaches at the state wrestling tournament being conducted in Colorado are wearing his name on their practice uniforms, according to the KKTV report. Other special honors are reportedly planned for the deceased Marine during the tournament Saturday.
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