Navy officials say a 19-year-old female sailor was found aboard the San Diego-based USS Essex with a gunshot wound Thursday. She was later pronounced dead at University of California, San Diego Trauma Center.
Navy spokesman Rick Chernitzer told U-T San Diego he could not surmise as to whether the shooting was self-inflicted or perpetrated by another:
“Since an investigation is being conducted, it would be inappropriate for me to speculate on anything. The Navy family is greatly saddened by the loss of our sailor, and our thoughts go out to the family, friends and shipmates.”
The Essex is currently at its homeport of San Diego.
