A U.S. Navy sailor has been formally charged in connection with the death of a fellow service member in Virginia, following allegations that the sailor operated a military patrol boat carelessly, as indicated by a statement from Navy officials on Monday.

The identity of the accused sailor has not been disclosed, pending the referral of charges to a court-martial. The deceased sailor has been identified as Lyndon Joel Cosgriff-Flax.

Facing multiple charges, the accused sailor is charged with negligent homicide, providing a false official statement, and failing in their duties. This sailor was part of a harbor patrol unit stationed at Naval Weapons Station Yorktown, which is situated close to the York River and approximately 35 miles from Norfolk, home to the largest naval base in the United States.

The incident took place on the York River in late April, according to the available charging documents. However, the charge sheet lacks extensive details, merely accusing the sailor of operating a harbor safety boat negligently and inaccurately asserting that Cosgriff-Flax had fallen overboard.

As the case unfolds, the Navy continues to pursue its investigation while maintaining responsible protocols in handling such serious allegations against service members. The legal proceedings will clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the accountability of those involved.

The Navy’s commitment to investigating incidents of this nature underscores the importance of safety and responsibility within its ranks. The tragic loss of a service member highlights the profound impact that negligence can have within military operations.

As this case develops and moves toward a court-martial, many within the military community are anticipating the outcomes, which will not only address the specific circumstances of this tragic event but also set a precedent concerning operational conduct in the Navy.