Missing Renton sailor found dead in Afghanistan

A Renton sailor who was reported missing in Afghanistan Tuesday was found dead.

There was an extensive search conducted when Jarod Paul Newlove, 25, went missing July 23.

“Petty Officer Newlove was a valued member of the Navy Reserve team," said Rear Admiral Buzz Little in a press release. "He was a dedicated reservist who volunteered to serve in Afghanistan."

Newlove was traveling in the Logar Province of Afghanistan when he was injured during a firefight, according to a press release.

It's not known whether he died during the incident or if he was first taken captive, but he died from wounds sustained during the firefight.

"I was greatly saddened to learn yesterday of the death of Petty Officer Newlove,” said Admiral Gary Roughead, in a press release. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Petty Officer Newlove's family during this difficult time."

The death of sailor who was with Newlove, Justin McNeley, 30, of Wheatridge, Colo., was announced July 27.

While the Navy reports Newlove being from Renton, he never attended Renton School District schools, said district spokesperson Randy Matheson.

Newlove went to high school in West Seattle and his family has a home there still today, according to media reports.

He served in the Navy for five years, joining in March 2004. In December 2008 he completed his service and joined the Navy reserve. In 2009, he was called back to duty and by December he was in Afghanistan.

He was attached to a mission specifically because of his skill sets, said Navy spokesperson Lt. Justin Cole.

He was listed as a culinary specialist. However, it's likely he wasn't recalled as a cook, Cole said.

There are approximately 6,500 Navy sailors serving on the ground in Afghanistan and Iraq, with 35 percent of them being from the Navy Reserve, according to the release.

Newlove's commendations include the Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and Sea Service Deployment ribbon.