The Marine Recruit who died last week at MCRD San Diego after an initial strength test (or IST) has been identified as Darnell McCowan III, 22, of Sacramento, California. According to a news release from MCRD San Diego, McCowan became unresponsive after running the 1.5 mile part of the strength test on June 29. He was later pronounced dead at Scripps Mercy Hospital that morning.
According to MCRD San Diego spokesman Marc Ayalin, the IST consists of the 1.5 mile run, three pull-ups, and 44 abdominal crunches.
McCowan was not new to the military. He had previously served as a Specialist in the Army Reserves, according to the MCRD release. McCowan began his Marine recruit training on June 18, 2012.
The Marine sent out their sympathies to McCowan's loved ones:
The Marine Corps Recruit Depot extends its deepest condolences to the McCowan family. We are saddened by this sudden loss and our thoughts and prayers are with them at this difficult hour.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of McCowan's death, which remains unknown.
