Remains of Second U.S. Soldier Found in Cave Nearly 2 Weeks After She Went Missing in the Ocean

The U.S. Army Europe and Africa has confirmed the recovery of the body of Spc. Mariyah Symone Collington, nearly two weeks after she and a fellow soldier, 1st Lt. Kendrick Lamont Key Jr., went missing during a military exercise in Morocco. The tragic event unfolded on May 2, and the recovery of Collington’s remains was announced on May 13.

Both service members were taking part in the African Lion 26 exercise, an annual joint military operation conducted across multiple African nations. They were reportedly last seen while on a recreational hike near Tan Tan when they decided to watch the sunset, an activity not officially part of the military training.

Preliminary reports indicate that during the hike, one of the soldiers fell into the ocean, prompting the other to jump in to attempt a rescue. Unfortunately, both soldiers encountered difficulties, as a wave struck Collington while a third soldier who attempted to assist was unable to reach them. The precise details of how they ended up in the water remain unclear.

An intensive search was launched after the soldiers were reported missing, encompassing both U.S. and Moroccan military forces. Officials stated that Collington and Key were last seen near ocean cliffs in the vicinity of the Cap Draa Training Area. When they failed to return, a joint rescue operation was initiated immediately.

Tragically, Key’s body was recovered from the shoreline on May 9, a finding that further intensified the search for Collington. The Moroccan military, assisted by U.S. Air Force pararescuemen and local civil protection authorities, conducted extensive operations despite facing challenging coastal terrain and adverse sea conditions.

Collington, who was just 19 years old, served as an air and missile defence crewmember for the U.S. Army. She was assigned to Charlie Battery, 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defence Artillery Regiment, and had recently completed Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training in the United States.

In a statement regarding Collington’s loss, Brig. Gen. Curtis King, the commanding officer of the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, expressed deep sorrow. He remarked on the profound impact of her passing, emphasising that the commitment to supporting her family and friends would continue in the wake of this tragedy.

Collington joined the U.S. Army in early 2023 and commenced active-duty service in 2024, quickly establishing a reputation within her unit. Capt. Spencer Grider, her battery commander, highlighted her outstanding character, describing her as someone whose enthusiasm and positivity significantly lifted the morale of her comrades.

The search for both soldiers involved over 1,000 U.S. and Moroccan military personnel, covering a staggering 21,300 square kilometres of land and sea. Gen. Christopher Donahue, Commanding General of U.S. Army Europe and Africa, praised the dedication and resolve of the search teams, acknowledging the strength of the partnership between the U.S. and Moroccan forces.

With the bodies of both Key and Collington accounted for, the focus has now shifted towards recovery and repatriation efforts. As the military community mourns their loss, tributes continue to pour in for Collington, who has been remembered for her genuine warmth and sense of humour.

The incident has sparked discussions about safety measures during joint military exercises, highlighting the need for caution and preparedness in potentially hazardous environments. As investigations into the circumstances surrounding their deaths continue, the U.S. Army remains committed to supporting the families affected by this tragedy.