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Coast Guardsman dies at Yorktown training facility

Posted at 5:41 AM, Jan 19, 2017
and last updated 2017-01-19 07:16:47-05

YORKTOWN, Va – Lt. j.g. Devin Hepner was found unresponsive in his barracks room Monday morning at a Yorktown Coast Guard training center. The 34-year-old guardsman was transported to the hospital where he died.

Hepner was from Logan, Utah and based in Astoria, Oregon.  He was serving at Coast Guard Sector Colombia River/Marine Safety Unit Portland in Astoria and attending the Investigating Officer Course in Yorktown.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss,” said Capt. Jay Vann, commanding officer of Training Center Yorktown. “We only got to know Devin a short time, but his passing will be felt by many.” “We thank him for his dedicated service; our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time,” said Vann.

“The loss of Devin comes as a great shock to us,” said Capt. Tom Griffitts, commanding officer of Marine Safety Unit Portland. “He was a seasoned Coast Guard officer who leaves behind a legacy of service protecting lives on our waterways.” “He will be missed as we keep his family in our prayers,” said Griffitts.