(BUENA VISTA, Colo.) — The military is investigating the death of a Marine from Southern Colorado who was found dead in his Camp Pendleton barracks earlier this month, according to military officials.

Military investigates Southern Colorado Marine found dead in barracks
Courtesy of Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office

The inquiry into what happened to Christopher Hutchings, who grew up in Colorado, will be conducted by the Armed Forces Medical Examiner alongside the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), stated Fox News.

Hutchings left for Marine boot camp in 2022. He was assigned to Marine Wing Support Squadron 372, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, Major Mason Englehart with 3d Marine Aircraft Wing, I MEF confirmed to FOX 5 Monday.

“We take all loss of life very seriously and extend our deepest condolences to those affected. PFC Hutchings was a valued member of the MWSS-372 “Diamondbacks” family and is missed greatly,” the military unit wrote in a statement.

He was found dead on Feb. 5, 2023. According to Fox News, the death is considered suspicious.

A funeral with full military honor for Hutchings is slated for Sunday, Feb. 26, per the Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO). A procession will also be held starting at the Sherrif’s Office in Salida at approximately 12:30 p.m. Response vehicles will proceed westbound on West 3rd Street to Highway 291, northbound on Highway 291 then northbound on Highway 285 to Buena Vista, eastbound on Main Street and southbound on South Railroad Street to the Buena Vista High School for the services, per CCSO.

“We are asking citizens to line the routes waving either the US Flag or US Marine Corps Flags to assist in honoring this young Marine,” said CCSO. “Our thoughts are with Christopher’s family and friends as they go thru this difficult time.”

To honor Hutchings, local first responders participated in a smaller procession along with the Buena Vista Police Department (BVPD) on Thursday, Feb. 16.

BVPD said Hutchings graduated from Buena Vista High School in 2022 and was part of the Demon’s Wrestling team.

“Our hometown son, friend and loved one is home! Chris Hutchings we love you son!” a police Facebook post read.