NCIS has launched an investigation into the death of retired Major General William Mullen, whose body was discovered at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, California, officials announced Tuesday.
Maj. Gen. Mullen, 59, was found dead on Saturday, as confirmed by the San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office.
The Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) is investigating Mullen’s death according to protocol, though specific details have not been disclosed.
“I can confirm that NCIS is conducting a thorough investigation into the death of retired Maj. Gen. William Mullen, as we do in response to any non-combat, medically unattended fatalities involving Navy and USMC equities, service members, and affiliated civilian personnel,” NCIS public affairs specialist Darwin Lam stated.
“Out of respect for the investigative process, NCIS will not comment further while the investigation remains ongoing,” he added.
Before retiring in 2020, Mullen served as the commanding general for the training and education command at the base. His 34-year military career included tours in the Middle East, leading a counter-narcotics mission in California’s Los Padres National Forest, and serving as a Marine aide to President Bill Clinton from 1999 to 2001.