Navy investigates why SEAL candidate Kyle Mullen died during Hell Week
Investigators are trying to determine why Sunday a Navy SEAL candidate is dead and another was hospitalized after completing “Hell Week” SEAL training.
The Navy said two sailors were rushed to hospitals in the San Diego area Friday, hours after their Basic Underwater Demolition class successfully completed part of the first phase of the program. SEAL evaluation and selection process, the Navy said.
On Sunday, the Navy identified the dead sailor as Kyle Mullen, 24, of Manalapan, New Jersey. The Navy said the cause of death had not yet been determined and was being investigated.
Training to become a SEAL begins with a 26-week full-body workout program, according to SEAL website.
“Every week of harder training is designed to help you develop the strength and endurance to withstand the rigors of the Navy SEALs,” the website says.
Becoming a SEAL involves physical and psychological strength along with water prowess and leadership skills. More than half of the candidates typically didn’t complete Hell Week’s Fatigue.
1 DIED SIGNATURE DIED: Another person hospitalized after Hell Week test
After the tragedy was announced, social media traffic attracted some questions about vaccinations, but most of the traffic offered condolences.
“RIP Budding Frogman,” tweeted Retired Navy Mark Irons. “If it’s safe and easy, anyone can do it…”
A Navy retiree with a Twitter handle Master Chief Gonzo: “Young Master God of Speed.”
The Navy said the sailors were not actively training when they were sick. Mullen died at Sharp Coronado Hospital in Coronado, and the remaining sailor is in stable condition at the San Diego Naval Medical Center.
The last SEAL candidate to die during the assessment period was Seaman James Derek Lovelace, 21, in 2016. He was struggling to tread water in a giant pool when his instructor pushed him down. water at least twice. He passed out and died.
The San Diego County Medical Examiner initially ruled Lovelace’s death a homicide, but the Navy refused to pursue criminal charges. An autopsy revealed that Lovelace had an enlarged heart that contributed to his death.
Contribution: Associated Press