The U.S. Naval Academy is investigating the death of Kyle Philbert James, a 20-year-old midshipman from Morris County. Authorities say James, a junior at the school and native of Whippany, was first reported missing on Oct. 9 after failing to show up for classes.

According to reports, James’ mother received a call that evening stating he couldn’t be located. Officials later confirmed James’ death but the academy hasn’t released details about where or how James was found, adding that the circumstances are under investigation.

“It is painful to lose a member of our Naval Academy family, and as we attempt to better understand this tremendous loss, we offer our deepest condolences to Philbert James’ family, close friends, classmates and company mates during this extremely difficult time,” Cmdr. Ashley Hockycko, an academy spokesperson, said in a statement.

James was majoring in history and was a member of the school’s gospel choir. U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-11th), and the Democratic candidate for New Jersey governor, also extended condolences to the James family saying she was proud to nominate James to the academy.

“Today, we mourn the tragic passing of Kyle James, a third-year midshipman at the U.S. Naval Academy,” Sherrill said. “His dedication and drive to serve his country embodied the Navy’s core values of honor, courage, and commitment, and will continue to serve as an inspiration to us all. I was proud to nominate Kyle to the Naval Academy, and he will be sorely missed by both the community at Annapolis and in New Jersey. I extend my deepest condolences to Midshipman James’ family, friends, and classmates.”