West Point Cadet Drowns While On Leave In Florida

WEST POINT, NY — A cadet attending the United States Military Academy in West Point is being mourned after dying in what appears to have been an accidental drowning.

Cadet Havin Morris, 21, of Pleasanton, California, died Monday while on leave in Florida, according to a news release issued by the academy.

“Cadet Morris was a valued member of the Corps of Cadets, committed to serving his country as an Army Officer,” said West Point Superintendent Lt. Gen. Steve Gilland.

“The entire West Point community offers our heartfelt condolences to the Morris family,” he said.

The Fort Lauderdale Police Department said Morris’s death appears to be an accidental drowning, and no foul play is suspected. The Fort Lauderdale police and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command are cooperating on the investigation.

The cadet’s family was officially notified by the Army, and a casualty assistance officer was appointed to support them.

Morris’s tactical officer, Maj. Rebecca A Gogue, described him as a bright, resilient young man with a determination to succeed in all he did.

West Point has resources available to assist cadets, staff, faculty and community members, including chaplains, the Center for Personal Development and the Military & Family Life Counseling Program. Officials said West Point has encouraged everyone to seek these services as needed.