A Marine murdered in California is finally back home in the Southern Tier.

The body of Christopher Truax Jr. flew into Hancock airport in Syracuse Monday morning.

A motorcade of more than 50 people then escorted his body home to Horseheads.

Truax, a Marine sergeant, was killed after being shot in a car in San Diego County on Friday.

The investigation into his death is still ongoing.

He leaves behind a wife and child.

The entire community is mourning his loss.

“Losing a soldier anywhere this young is extremely tragic and it really, for all of us veterans, it really cuts to the soul and it hurts. And we grieve and feel sad for the family,” said Kent Tryon, Patriots Guard Riders captain.

Calling hours are scheduled for Tuesday at His Tabernacle Church in Horseheads from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.