On Monday night, two people were reportedly killed onboard the USS Mahan, a guided-missile destroyer. The Navy ship was docked at the Naval Station in Norfolk. It has been there since September after it spent over eight months in deployment.
According to reports from the U.S. Navy, the incident happened at about 11:20 p.m. when a civilian went onboard the ship and approached the Quarterdeck. He was then reprimanded by security. The suspect was able to disarm the petty officer and the gun was used to shoot and kill the sailor who responded to help.
Security personnel who responded to the scene were able to kill the suspect.
The identities of the sailor and the suspect have not yet been released due to the ongoing investigation.
According to sources, the suspect did not have the authority to be on the base at all. However, he had TWIC or Transportation Worker Identification Credential. This allowed the suspect to have access to Pier 1, but not aboard the USS Mahan where the incident happened.
The Transportation Security Administration said that not just anyone can have the TWIC. Applicants must submit to security threat assessment and they must also provide fingerprints. Those who have the TWIC are typically the ones who need unsupervised access to vessels and maritime facilities that are secure from civilians.
NCIS has already completed the physical investigation of Pier 1 and the Navy has taken over. However, the NCIS is still taking statements and interviewing people.
In a press conference, base commander Capt. Robert Clark said that the Navy will be looking into their security measures. He also said that the Navy’s thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased sailor.
“We are in the process of notifying the sailor’s next of kin, and I would ask that you please respect their privacy at this very difficult time.” The Captain refused to give specific information about the sailor, saying that it was not appropriate to do so at the present time.
Main image via YouTube, image of ship via Wikimedia Commons