Authorities are still searching for a U.S. Military Academy cadet after he went missing from the elite military academy this weekend.
The cadet, identified as 20-year-old Kade Kurita of California, was last seen Friday and didn’t show up for a military skills competition this weekend.
The school says an M4 rifle was also missing but officials don’t believe he has any magazines or ammunition, it also said that there is “no indication” that Kurita poses a threat to others, although he “may be a danger to himself.”
After he went missing there was an initial search by students before West Point contacted a number of government agencies to help with the search, including the Coast Guard. Those searching have used dogs, drones, and helicopters in the effort.
Lt. Gen. Darryl Williams, the superintendent at West Point, thanked those who have helped with the ongoing search in a statement.
“I want to thank the local and state law enforcement agencies and emergency services for their tireless support,” Williams said. “We will continue to search with all means possible, on and off West Point. Safely locating the Cadet remains our focus and number one priority.”
The search for Kurita escalated Tuesday with the arrival of about 130 soldiers from the 23rd Military Police Company, according to Army Times.
“There has been no cell phone or financial activity in over 72 hours,” said Colonel Cecil Marson, West Point garrison commander. “This leads us to believe that he is still in the vicinity of West Point.”
The Army Criminal Investigation Division has also opened an investigation into Kurita’s disappearance.
In June, one West Point cadet was killed and 20 others were injured after a Light Medium Tactical Vehicle crashed early in the morning. The cadets in the crash were part of the class of 2020.
UPDATE: The body of 20-year-old Kade Kurita of California was discovered Tuesday night at the West Point post in New York, the school announced Wednesday.
