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U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12) released the following statement on the ongoing investigation into the death of U.S. Marine Corps Private Raheel Siddiqui, who died on March 18, 2016 at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island.

“The family of Private Raheel Siddiqui deserves to understand all of the facts and circumstances surrounding his tragic death. We are working to ensure that this investigation is carried out in a thorough, detailed and exhaustive manner, and I continue to speak with the appropriate people at the Marine Corps to ensure this occurs. The Navy Criminal Investigative Service is continuing their investigation. It is very important that we have a full picture of what happened. I am awaiting a written response to my letter dated April 4, 2016 which will provide some sense of when we can expect a full report and any appropriate action following this tragedy. 

“While this investigation proceeds, it is very important to me and our community that everyone understand that by all accounts this was an intelligent, loyal, patriotic young Muslim man – and class valedictorian – who loved his country, and I have been deeply touched at the overwhelming number of people who have reached out to me who knew him, attended school with him, or worked with him. Each one has told me that all he wanted to do was serve the country that had been so good to him and protect the freedoms we hold dear. 

“We remain fully engaged with the Marine Corps, NCIS and all responsible parties to ensure a prompt and unbiased investigation that will provide Private Siddiqui’s family and our community the answers they deserve.”

Earlier this month, Dingell sent a letter to U.S. Marine Corps Commandant General Robert B. Neller seeking further clarification on the circumstances surrounding the death of Private Siddiqui. For more information, please click here.