Blumenthal Statement on Investigation Into Charges Against Commanders of USS Fitzgerald And USS John S. McCain

(Washington, DC) -- U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) issued the following statement regarding possible criminal charges-- including negligent homicide-- against Commanding officers and leaders of the U.S.S. Fitzgerald and U.S.S. John S. McCain. Seventeen sailors, including two from Connecticut, died in deadly collisions on board the ships last summer.

“The deadly collisions that took the lives of seventeen sailors last summer, including two from Connecticut, must never happen again. I support the Navy’s efforts to confront any and all deficiencies that contributed to these avoidable tragedies. The serious charges to be considered against Commanding officers and leaders on both ships are a step toward accountability for the families and friends of those brave sailors. Other strong steps are necessary. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I will do everything possible to make sure the Navy has the resources and leadership to protect our sailors and the world’s greatest Navy.”