US Marine Detained in Japan in Connection with Local National's Death

A U.S. service member has been detained in Okinawa, Japan, in connection with the death of a Japanese national, U.S. officials confirmed.

The III Marine Expeditionary Force acknowledged the detention in a statement on social media, saying, "We are actively cooperating with Japanese authorities, in response to allegations of serious criminal actions by a Marine assigned to the III Marine Expeditionary Force."

U.S. officials did not immediately release the name of the service member or specify whether charges have been filed. The force extended its "deepest condolences to the victim’s family and friends."

The U.S. Embassy in Tokyo also stated it was aware of the incident and offered its condolences to the bereaved family. "At present, an investigation is underway to clarify the facts, and the United States Government continues to cooperate closely with the Government of Japan and local authorities," the embassy said in a statement.

U.S. Ambassador to Japan George Glass said he had communicated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the governor of Okinawa. His office is "providing full cooperation with the investigation into the death."