Evan Wright, the acclaimed author and journalist known for his embedded reporting with the US Marines during the Iraq War, has died by suicide at the age of 59. His contributions to journalism and storytelling have been widely recognized and mourned.
Evan Wright, the esteemed journalist and author whose intrepid reporting during the Iraq War earned him critical acclaim, has passed away at the age of 59. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office has attributed his death to a gunshot wound to the head, indicating suicide.
Wright rose to prominence with his groundbreaking series of articles for Rolling Stone magazine titled "The Killer Elite," which chronicled his experiences embedded with the US Marines during the early stages of the Iraq War. His vivid and unflinching reporting garnered him a National Magazine Award for Excellence in Reporting in 2004.
Evan Wright, Author and Journalist Who Embedded with US Marines in Iraq War, Dies by Suicide at 59
Following the success of his articles, Wright expanded upon his wartime experiences in the book "Generation Kill," which became an instant bestseller and was later adapted into an acclaimed HBO miniseries. His work provided a deeply immersive and authentic portrait of life on the front lines of war.
Wright's contributions to journalism extended beyond his coverage of the Iraq War. He also authored several other books, including "How to Get Away with Murder in America," which delved into a high-profile FBI murder investigation, and "American Desperado," detailing the life of a former Mafia soldier and cocaine smuggler.
Evan Wright, Author and Journalist Who Embedded with US Marines in Iraq War, Dies by Suicide at 59
In recent years, Wright turned his attention to the troubled teen industry, investigating and exposing the widespread abuses and exploitation that occur within its facilities. He was actively involved in promoting the Max series "Teen Torture, Inc.," which shines a light on this hidden aspect of American society.
David Simon, one of the writers for the "Generation Kill" miniseries, paid tribute to Wright, acknowledging his exceptional storytelling abilities and his impact on the show's success. Wright's death has also been met with solemn statements from those who served alongside him during his time in Iraq.
Evan Wright, Author and Journalist Who Embedded with US Marines in Iraq War, Dies by Suicide at 59
Lt. Nathan Fick, who was prominently featured in "The Killer Elite," expressed his profound loss and gratitude for Wright's presence at their side during the Iraq War. Fick described Wright as a kind and courageous observer who risked his own safety to document the reality of combat.
Evan Wright's legacy as a journalist and author will undoubtedly endure. His fearless reporting, incisive storytelling, and deep compassion for those who lived through the horrors of war have left an indelible mark on the world. His untimely passing is a tragic loss for the field of journalism and for the many lives that he touched through his work.
Evan Wright, Author and Journalist Who Embedded with US Marines in Iraq War, Dies by Suicide at 59
Wright is survived by his wife and three children. His contributions to literature, journalism, and the pursuit of truth will forever be remembered and celebrated.
