Three Marine lance corporals were found dead inside a vehicle at a gas station in Hampstead, North Carolina on Sunday morning, according to the Marine Corps. The three Marines, identified as Lance Corporal Tanner J. Kaltenberg, Lance Corporal Merax C. Dockery, and Lance Corporal Ivan R. Garcia, were based at Camp LeJeune, about 30 miles away from the gas station. The cause and circumstances of their deaths are currently under investigation.

Deputies from the Pender County Sheriff's Office made the discovery while responding to a missing person report. The bodies were found unresponsive at a Speedway gas station. According to Sgt. Chester Ward of the sheriff's office, no drugs were found in the vehicle, and there is no threat to the public. Authorities have not disclosed the probable cause of death.

The three Marines were members of Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group. Lance Corporal Garcia had been on active duty the longest, entering service in July 2019, while Lance Corporal Dockery entered active duty service in June 2020 and Lance Corporal Kaltenberg entered active duty service in May 2021.

Brig. Gen. Michael E. McWilliams, commanding general of 2nd Marine Logistics Group, expressed his condolences to the families and colleagues of the deceased Marines. He emphasized that their focus is on providing necessary resources and support to those affected by the tragic loss.

The Pender County Sheriff's Office stated that there is no indication of foul play, but the exact cause of death will be determined following an autopsy. The Marine Corps Base Camp LeJeune, where the Marines were stationed, is home to several military units, including the II Marine Expeditionary Force and the 2nd Marine Division.

The investigation into the deaths of the three Marines is ongoing, and further details will be released as they become available.