The commanding officer of SEAL Team 8 succumbed to his injuries from a training accident.

Cmdr. Brian Bourgeois, 43, died on Dec. 7 at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital in Virginia after he sustained injuries in a Dec. 4 training incident believed to be a fast-rope training exercise on Dec. 4, according to a statement from the Navy.

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“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Bourgeois family — and we will ensure our community remains in support of and in relationship with Brian’s family and his children, for life,” said Rear Adm. H.W. Howard III, commander of Naval Special Warfare Command. “Brian was one of our very best leaders, who possessed all the attributes that make our force effective.  We will miss his charismatic leadership and faithful stewardship of our standard.  His legacy carries on in teammates he served with, led, and mentored.”

His death is under investigation, and the “initial indications show that the tragedy occurred during a fast-rope training evolution.”

"We are working with SEAL Team 8 to provide every form of support we possibly can to Brian's family and teammates," said Capt. Donald Wetherbee, commodore of Naval Special Warfare Group 2. "An incident like this weighs heavily on us all. Brian was as tough as they come, an outstanding leader, and a committed father, husband and friend. This is a great loss to everyone who knew him. He will be greatly missed." 

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He had served in the Navy for more than 20 years. The SEAL Team 8 executive officer has temporarily assumed command.