Missing U.S. Naval Academy Midshipman Kyle Philbert James found dead

ANNAPOLIS, Md. — On October 12, the United States Naval Academy announced that authorities had located Midshipman Second Class Kyle Philbert James, 20, deceased near the campus after he went missing. James, a junior from Whippany, New Jersey, had failed to attend classes on October 9, prompting academy officials to notify his family later that day.

Missing U.S. Naval Academy Midshipman Kyle Philbert found deceased

Local reports described James’ absence as peculiar. The Naval Academy alerted his family the next day that someone had discovered his remains near campus. However, the academy has not released specific details about the location or condition in which they found him.

“The circumstances surrounding his death are currently under investigation,” the academy stated. Officials have yet to name the agency conducting the inquiry.

James was a history major, a member of the 36th Company, and an active participant in the USNA Gospel Choir. Peers described him as thoughtful, disciplined, and deeply committed to service.

“It is painful to lose a member of our Naval Academy family,” the academy said. “We offer our deepest condolences to Philbert James’ family, close friends, classmates, and company mates during this extremely difficult time.”

Grief Support

In response to the loss, the academy activated support services through the Midshipman Development Center, Chaplain’s Center, and Chain of Command. These resources remain available to midshipmen, faculty, and staff.