Sub commander accused of faking death

GROTON, Conn. (AP) - A submarine commander who was relieved of his duties last week reportedly tried to fake his own death to end an extramarital affair.

The Day of New London reports Navy Cmdr. Michael P. Ward II is accused by a 23-year-old Chesapeake, Va. woman of getting her pregnant, then sending her an email in July that indicated he had died.

The 43-year-old Ward was relieved as commanding officer of the USS Pittsburgh on Friday based on "allegations of personal misconduct."

Ward and the Navy declined to comment on the report, which was based on an interview with the woman, as well as copies of emails and text messages she provided the newspaper.

The Navy says it will not release details of its investigation until it is complete.