Virginia Beach, Va - According to the FBI, two agents were killed in a training accident off the coast of Virginia Beach on Friday.
Special Agent Christopher Lorek and Special Agent Stephen Shaw were members of the FBI’s Hostage Rescue Team, part of the Critical Incident Response Group based at Quantico, Virginia.
In a statement, FBI Director Robert S. Mueller said, “We mourn the loss of two brave and courageous men, who like all who serve on the Hostage Rescue Team—whether training or on an operational mission—accept the highest risk, each and every day, in their commitment 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.”
Special Agent Lorek, age 41, joined the FBI in 1996. He is survived by his wife and two daughters, ages 11 and 8. Special Agent Shaw, 40, joined the FBI in 2005 and is survived by his wife; a daughter, age 3; and a son, age 1.
The cause of the incident is under investigation.
An official who asked not to be identified told CNN that the two agents were killed in a hostage rescue training exercise. The official gave no further details.
