The Navy's medical "negligence" resulted in the death of Kyle Mullen, a U.S. Navy SEAL, after he completed "hell week," his mother claimed.
According to Regina Mullen, her 24-year-old son was full of life and was determined to serve his community when he enrolled in the Navy, she said in an interview with CBS 2 News New York.
"When he was out there, he was happy. He said he made the best decision of his life," Mullen said to the network.
On Feb 4, after he completed "hell week," an intense part of training, Kyle Mullen called his mother.
"He's like, 'I did it Mom! I completed hell week,' and I was so happy for him," Mullen said. "And he sounded really bad. He couldn't breathe," she told CBS 2 News New York.
Her son died a few hours later, she said.
Regina Mullen said people who were there when her son was in distress said the Navy medical team was not available, and by the time 911 was called, it was too late.
"If he was medically monitored, to me, there is no question my son would be alive today," Mullen said.
Autopsy results haven't been released, but Mullen, a registered nurse, believes her son died from a form of pneumonia caused by rigorous exercise on land and in water.
Navy SEAL training tests physical and psychological strength along with water competency and leadership skills. The program is so grueling that up to 60% don’t make it through hell week.
Mullen said her son, a New Jersey native, had no prior medical condition and that his death is a tragedy. She wants more medical monitoring for SEAL candidates during and after training.
"I need people held accountable ... who authorized the medical team to go home? Why didn't they answer?" Mullen said. "Why aren't they all medically checked for at least 24 hours after what they have endured?"
She also wants an independent investigation done and for her son's autopsy results to be expedited.
The U.S. Navy issued the following statement to CBS News 2 New York: "Naval Special Warfare continues to extend our deepest condolences and full support to the Mullen family. Multiple independent investigations are ongoing into the circumstances surrounding Seaman Kyle Mullen's death.
"Until the investigations are complete, it is inappropriate to speculate on the cause of death or contributing factors. Naval Special Warfare is committed to safe assessment, selection and training of the Navy's commandos in defense of the United States of America and to be stewards of the special trust the American people place in our force."
The Navy said Mullen wasn't training at the time of his death.
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