Authorities released the name of the contractor who was recently killed in a car crash in Okinawa, Japan, as Japanese officials continue investigating the incident, including whether the contractor was speeding or under the influence at the time of the accident.
Eugene Warfield, 68, was employed as an anti-terrorist inspector at Camp Lester under the Defense Policy Review Initiative at Marine Corps Installations Pacific. He was involved in a single-car crash on Route 85 near Koja on February 12 at around 8:16 a.m, Stars and Stripes reported.
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Warfield was transported to a local hospital. However, he succumbed to his injuries the next day. Warfield was a long-standing presence in Okinawa, assisting Marine training under the program
Constant Vigilance in 2010 with Camps Courtney and McTureous.
The roads surrounding the military base in Okinawa have claimed the lives of multiple active-duty military members and civilian contractors. In 2022, four fatal crashes occurred on Route 58. Local police investigation ruled out the use of alcohol in the crashes, of which all but one involved a single car that swerved off the road. Local authorities regularly apply non-stick coatings to the roads in an attempt to limit accidents. However, the coating may not be as effective during Okinawa’s rainy season.
The composition of the roads in Okinawa, high in limestone mined from the sea, creates a surface that is more susceptible to slipping than other road surfaces. The limestone is also easily degraded by salt and sun exposure, which can lead to further dangers for drivers. In an effort to limit accidents, the Marines Corps Installation Pacific regularly supplies handouts to caution newly stationed members about the dangers. Narrow, winding roads, and congestion are also listed as factors in the high accident rates.
