Three Marine lance corporals stationed at the nearby Camp Lejeune were found dead in a car at a North Carolina gas station. Local authorities have ruled out foul play and drugs, and the cause of their death is currently unknown pending an autopsy.
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Key Points:Â
- The deceased Marines were identified as Tanner J. Kaltenberg, 19, from Wisconsin; Merax C. Dockery, 23, from Oklahoma; and Ivan R. Garcia, 23, from Florida. They were motor vehicle operators with the Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, and 2nd Marine Logistics Group at Camp Lejeune.
- The three men were discovered unresponsive in a privately owned car at a Speedway gas station in Hampstead, North Carolina. Despite no evidence of foul play or drugs, the cause of death remains undetermined.
- One of the Marines had been reported missing prior to the discovery of their bodies, but no additional details were shared by the Pender County Sheriff’s Office.
- The Marines’ cause of death may be determined as early as the next day, following the autopsy.
- Brigadier General Michael McWilliams expressed deep condolences to the families and colleagues of the deceased Marines, emphasizing support for those affected by the tragic incident.
