Two FBI agents were killed while taking part in a training exercise near Virginia Beach, the bureau said in a statement.
The statement was brief: “Special Agent Christopher Lorek and Special Agent Stephen Shaw were assigned to the FBI’s Critical Incident Response Group. The cause of the incident is under review.”
CNN reported that a spokesman said the two agents had been taking part in a hostage rescue training exercise. The Daily Mail reported that the accident involved a helicopter crash.
The two were killed Friday, but the bureau only released the information late Sunday.
The Associated Press said Mr. Lorek joined the FBI in 1996 and was 41. Mr. Shaw joined in 2005 and was 40. Both were married with children: Mr. Lorek had two daughters, ages 11 and 8; and Mr. Shaw, a daughter age 3 and a son, age 1, AP said.
“We mourn the loss of two brave and courageous men,” FBI Director Robert Mueller said, AP reported. “Like all who serve on the Hostage Rescue Team, they accept the highest risk each and every day, when training and on operational missions, to keep our nation safe. Our hearts are with their wives, children and other loved ones who feel their loss most deeply. And they will always be part of the FBI family.”
The Hostage Rescue Team is part of the Critical Incident Response Group that is based in Quantico, Va.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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