MANALAPAN – Officials are investigating the death of 24-year-old Kyle Mullen from Manalapan, a Navy SEAL candidate who passed away on Friday just hours after training.
According to a statement from the U.S. Navy announcing his death, Mullen had just completed what is known as “Hell Week,” which is vigorous training that pushes a sailor’s physical and mental limits in order to become SEALs.
Mullen passed away after the 120-hour week, while another SEAL candidate has been hospitalized but is said to be in stable condition.
Officials confirmed that candidates receive medical screenings throughout the course of the week. However, the cause of Mullen’s death is unknown and currently under investigation. He now becomes the fourth to pass away in SEAL selection since 2001.
Before becoming a Navy SEAL candidate, Mullen played football at Monmouth University.
“We are all saddened by the unfortunate passing of Kyle Mullen,” Monmouth University head coach Kevin Callahan said on Facebook. “As a member of our 2019 championship team, he will be remembered not just as an excellent player, but also as an excellent person and a great teammate. He was highly motivated on the field, but his maturity, intelligence, and concern for his fellow teammates is what stands out about Kyle.”
