Navy says SEAL candidate dies after Hell Week test

By Lolita C. Baldor | Related press

WASHINGTON – A Navy SEAL candidate has died and a second is in the hospital after falling ill just hours after they successfully completed the harsh Hell Week test, ending the first phase of the battle. pricing and selection of Navy commandos, the Navy said Saturday.

The Navy said both were rushed to a hospital in California. The Navy said neither of them had any accidents or unusual incidents during the five-and-a-half-day Hell Week.

The test is part of the BUD/S SEALs class, which involves basic underwater destruction, survival, and other combat tactics. It comes in the fourth week when SEAL candidates are being evaluated and are expected to be selected for training in the Navy’s Special Warfare Basic Training Command.

One of the candidates died at Sharp Coronado Hospital in Coronado, California, on Friday. The other is in stable condition at the San Diego Naval Medical Center.

The Navy said the cause of death was not immediately known and was being investigated. The sailor’s name was withheld until 24 hours after his family was notified, according to Navy policy.

The SEAL program tests physical and psychological strength along with water prowess and leadership skills. The program is so exhausting that at least 50% to 60% fail to make it through Hell Week, when applicants are pushed to the limit.

The last SEAL candidate to die during the assessment period was 21-year-old Seaman James Derek Lovelace in 2016. He was struggling to tread water in a giant pool when his instructor pushed him into the water a little. at least twice. He passed out and died.

His death was initially ruled homicide by the San Diego County Medical Examiner. A year later, following an investigation, the Navy said it would not seek criminal responsibility for Lovelace’s drowning. An autopsy revealed that he had an enlarged heart that contributed to his death, and that he also had an abnormal coronary artery, which has been linked to sudden cardiac death, especially in the mobilize.