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Three USS George Washington Sailors died by suicide in April 2022, with the Navy saying that the Sailors had no social or working relationships with one another, and that each Sailor was experiencing "unique and individualized life stressors" that led to their deaths, according to a statement made by the United State Fleet Forces Command.
“We have diligently worked to determine the facts and understand the circumstances surrounding these tragic events with the hope that this will not only provide closure to those grieving the loss of our shipmates, but to learn and better refine our process to address a public health issue that affects families, communities, and our society,” said Rear Adm. John F. Meier, commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic.
The investigation surrounds the three suicides of Retail Services Specialist 3rd Class Mikail Sharp, who committed suicide at an off-base location on April 9, Interior Communications Electrician 3rd Class Natasha Huffman, who was found dead on April 10, and Master-At-Arms Seaman Recruit Xavier Mitchell-Sandor, who was found by fellow sailors aboard the ship on April 15, according to Military.com.
“The loss of these three Sailors and the impact their deaths had on their shipmates, family and friends is nothing that can ever be measured,” said Adm. Daryl Caudle, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command. “We can, however, investigate why they did what they did, learn from it, and use that information to prevent it from happening again. We owe that to every Sailor to keep them physically and mentally safe.”
A second, broader investigation with the purpose of evaluating command climate and quality of service challenges unique to the shipyard environment remains ongoing.
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