Seven Marines were killed the night of March 18 in an explosion that left several others injured during a Marine Corps training exercise at Hawthorne Army Depot in western Nevada. While media reports that a 60-millimeter round that detonated inside a mortar tube caused the explosion, a public affairs representative with the Marine Corps headquarters said that the investigation is still underway. It could not be confirmed what caused the explosion.
“Honor the Fallen: Seven #Marines killed during a training exercise in Nevada,” tweeted the U.S. Marines at 11:20 a.m. EST.
Servicemen with the Second Marines Division from the Marine Corps Base in Camp Lejeune, N.C., were among those that were injured or killed.
“The identities of those killed will be provided 24 hours after primary next of kin notification,” the Marine Corps stated in a press release. “The status of those injured will be provided as it becomes available.”
“We send our prayers and condolences to the families of Marines involved in this tragic incident. We remain focused on ensuring that they are supported through this difficult time,” said Maj. Gen. Raymond C. Fox, Marine Expeditionary Force commanding general. “We mourn their loss, and it is with heavy hearts we remember their courage and sacrifice.”
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