The US Marine Corps announced that a 20-year-old Marine was found dead while on duty at Marine Barracks Washington in the Washington Navy Yard base early Wednesday morning.
He was identified as Lance Cpl. Andrew J. Arista of Garden Grove, California, according to a press statement issued by the Marine Corps.
The body of the Marine was found on the corner of 8th and I streets in Southeast at approximately 2:45 am. Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) authorities arrived to the scene upon reports.
First responders reportedly administered CPR to Arista, however, their attempts failed and he was pronounced dead shortly after 3:00 am.
Officials are treating the incident as an “apparent suicide” but there is an investigation underway. Police found a M4 colt carbine at the scene.
“No foul play is expected at this time,” said the statement. “The command is making every effort to take care of those involved at this time.”
“The command’s priorities are to take care of our Marines and Lance Cpl. Arista’s family and friends,” said Col. Teague Pastel, commanding officer of Marine Barracks.
Arista served as a squad leader and received a number awards such as the National Defense Service Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.