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Virginia-based sailor dies while deployed to Red Sea, officials say

NEW YORK - MAY 24: The USS Mason sails down the Hudson River past the Empire State building May 24, 2006 in New York City. Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen will sail into New York during the Parade of Ships May 23 that begins the annual Fleet Week. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) (Spencer Platt)
NEW YORK - MAY 24: The USS Mason sails down the Hudson River past the Empire State building May 24, 2006 in New York City. Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen will sail into New York during the Parade of Ships May 23 that begins the annual Fleet Week. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) (Spencer Platt)
By Caitlyn Burchett Virginian-Pilot

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – A Norfolk-based sailor serving aboard a destroyer died after he was “lost overboard” while deployed to the Red Sea, officials announced Saturday.

Oriola Michael Aregbesola, 34, an aviation machinist’s mate aboard the USS Mason, went overboard Wednesday. The Department of Defense identified the death as a casualty of a non-combat related incident. It is under investigation.

The U.S. Navy statement did not specify if the sailor jumped or fell. When asked if the death is a suspected suicide, a spokesperson for U.S. Central Command referred only to the Navy’s statement.

Aregbesola was assigned to the “Swamp Foxes” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 74, which is deployed with the USS Mason. The USS Mason is part of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group. The group deployed from Naval Station Norfolk in mid-October and is postured in and around the Red Sea to deter aggression from Iranian proxy forces.

Aregbesola, a Florida native, joined the Navy in July 2020. He reported to the helicopter squadron in December 2020.

“Petty Officer Aregbesola fully embodied the selfless character and thoughtful warrior spirit of the United States Navy Sailor,” said Cmdr. Eric Kohut, commanding officer of the squadron. “His outstanding performance prior to and during deployment went well beyond aircraft maintenance; he truly saw and valued every member of the ship/air team. He will continue on in the heart of every Swamp Fox and our brothers and sisters in the IKE Carrier Strike Group. Our deepest thoughts and prayers are with his family.”