US Marine faces threats after mistaken identity in Cornell rape case

A U.S. Marine staff sergeant and his family are facing severe harassment and threats after being mistakenly identified in a lawsuit related to an alleged 2024 gang rape at Cornell University.

Matthew Ingalls, a machinist with Combat Logistics Battalion 26 at Camp Lejeune, was incorrectly named in a 101-page lawsuit intended for a Chi Phi fraternity member with the same name. While the intended recipient is one of seven members accused in the incident, the Marine was serving on active duty and never attended Cornell University.

Family members report receiving aggressive messages, death threats, and having items thrown at their home. Officials at Camp Lejeune have issued a statement clarifying that Ingalls was not the individual named in the suit and was serving “honorably” during the time of the alleged assault. The family has since sought legal counsel.