21-year-old Navy SEAL dies during first week of training

Authorities are investigating the death of Navy SEAL student James Derek Lovelace, 21, who died during his first week of basic training in California. The Florida native was participating in underwater demolition training when he appeared to be having problems in the pool.

"He was aided to the edge of the pool by instructors where he then lost consciousness. Resuscitation efforts and first aid at the scene were unsuccessful," the Navy said.

The exercises involved students treading water and swimming in dive masks and camouflage uniforms, which the Navy uses to determine trainees' "competency and confidence" in the water, according to CNN.

The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

Sign up

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of SN Lovelace. Though Derek was very new to our community, he selflessly answered his nation's call to defend freedom and protect this country," commanding officer of the Naval Special Warfare Center Capt. Jay Hennessey said.