A US Marine on leave was involved in the death of Emerson College student Daniel J. Hollis, who suffered a fatal brain injury in a late-night fight in Allston a week and a half ago, the Marine Corps said in a statement Tuesday.
“We are deeply saddened to learn that an off-base incident allegedly involving one of our Marines has led to the passing of a man in the Boston community,’’ the Corps said in the statement. “The event occurred during an approved leave period for the Marine, in the early hours of September 28, 2019. This is a tragic event and is being treated with great care and solemnity on the part of the command.”
Hollis died last week after spending several days on life support. Family members said he suffered the irreparable brain damage when he was hit and struck his head on the pavement.
His death is being investigated as a homicide, according to Boston Police.
“We stand in full support of the Boston Police Department as they continue their investigation into this matter,” Hollis’ family said. “We are confident they will find the individuals responsible for this tragic act of violence and bring them to justice.”
Boston police could not confirm the statement made by the Corps, stating they could not comment on an active investigation.
No arrests have been made as of Tuesday, though the Marine Corps indicated the member of their force will be arrested, saying they “will provide another update once the Marine is in custody.”
Hollis was a sophomore studying marketing and communications at Emerson, where he also played lacrosse. The school community held a vigil on his behalf this past Thursday.
“It has become abundantly clear to us that Dan not only made the world brighter for his friends and family, but also for those he encountered,” his family said, adding that Hollis “loved life and wanted others to share in his happiness.”
“Daniel was many things student, athlete, artist, music lover, friend. He was just 19 years old and only beginning to experience the world around him,” they continued. “He looked forward to traveling abroad and expanding his creative pursuits through clothing and marketing. While often receiving recognition for his play on the field or ice, it was the camaraderie of the team that Dan loved most about sports.”
Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact Boston Police homicide detectives at 617-343-4470.
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© 2019 the Boston Herald
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