Decorated Marine Killed in Routine Drill

A highly decorated Marine who recently returned from Iraq was killed during a routine training exercise, authorities said Sunday.

Sgt. Emery D. Nyeki, 26, was inside a Humvee with another Marine performing maneuvers when the accident happened at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, authorities said.

“Our condolences go out to the family,” said Lt. Nathan Braden, a spokesman for the base.

The name of the other Marine was not released. Authorities said his injuries were not life threatening.

Nyeki, born in Northridge, enlisted in the Marines in October 2000. He was deployed last year in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The awards he received during his tour include the Combat Action Ribbon, the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, the National Defense Service Medal and the Presidential Unit Citation.