Expert Reveals Two US Marines Involved in Iraq War Family Killing
In a troubling case involving the Iraq War, two US Marines have been identified as participants in the tragic killing of a civilian family. The incident took place in Haditha, where Marines Lance Corporal Stephen Tatum and another unnamed Marine were implicated.
Key Details of the Case
Lance Corporal Stephen Tatum confirmed his involvement in the shootings but claimed he was following orders from his squad leader, Wuterich. Initially, he asserted he was unaware of the presence of women and children due to limited visibility. However, his later statements reflected a different narrative.
Statements and Contradictions
- In April 2006, Tatum reported seeing children in the room where the shooting occurred.
- He stated, “I am trained to shoot two shots to the chest and two shots to the head.”
- By May 2006, he acknowledged identifying women and children before firing.
- A subsequent statement detailed him shooting a child, recalling the child’s attire and stance.
Tatum’s defense team argued that these statements were made under duress. Charges against him were dropped in March 2008. Notably, these statements were excluded during Wuterich’s trial.
Forensic Insights
Forensic expert Michael Maloney suggested that Tatum and another Marine, likely Mendoza, were responsible for the shootings of Safa’s family. Maloney deduced that Mendoza entered the bedroom first, with Tatum following closely and firing across the bed.
Responses from the Marines
- Mendoza did not respond to inquiries regarding the allegations.
- He has previously acknowledged shooting Safa’s father but claimed he acted under orders.
- There have been no criminal charges against Mendoza.
Through his attorney, Tatum expressed a desire to move on from the events in Haditha. Despite the controversies surrounding his statements, he maintains his position as one of the shooters involved in this tragic incident.
