Missing Marine found dead

The Yuma County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the body of Cpl. Joshua Barron, who was reported missing last week, has been recovered from a canal.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Cpl. Barron during this tragic time,” said Lt. Col. Gregory Clarke, MALS-13 commander. “The Marine Corps is deeply saddened to lose one of its own and is committed to helping Cpl. Barron’s family in every way possible.”

According to Capt. Eben Bratcher, YCSO spokesman, Barron’s body was found by a member of the community in a canal near County 12½ Street and Avenue D. He said YCSO received a report of a deceased subject in a canal at about 9:40 a.m. Monday. When deputies responded to the scene, they found the body of an adult male.

Barron’s body was tentatively identified based on tattoos. Bratcher said a positive identification was made Monday evening with the assistance of Marine Corps officials, and next of kin was notified.

Bratcher said there was no evidence of foul play found at the scene; however, the cause of death is pending the results of an autopsy, which is scheduled for Wednesday.

When the body was initially found, Bratcher explained that the sheriff’s office did not know that a Marine had been reported missing, so it did not know to contact the air station.

Military law enforcement had been working with Yuma police since the disappearance was reported within city limits.

A 22-year-old native of Cumberland, Maine, Barron joined the Marine Corps in July 2008. A husband and father of a one-year-old stepson, Barron was an AV-8B Harrier engine mechanic attached to Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 13, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.

His decorations include the Good Conduct Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.

A memorial service for Barron is scheduled for Thursday at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma.
Barron was last seen by his roommate at approximately 9:30 p.m. March 15 at the off-base apartment they share. The following day, when he did not show up for work, co-workers at his command began to worry.

According to base officials, co-workers first tried to call Cpl. Barron and couldn’t get a hold of him on the phone. They then tried to go out to his residence but weren’t able to find him. Military law enforcement was then contacted.

James Gilbert can be reached at jgilbert@yumasun.com or 539-6854.