Michael Beck, 65, Dies; First to Report Symptoms of ‘Havana Syndrome’

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by Clay RisenJanuary 30, 2026 at 12:49 AM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Michael Beck, the first U.S. government employee to report symptoms now known as Havana Syndrome, died Saturday in Columbia, Maryland, at age 65. Beck, an NSA employee, claimed exposure to a "technical threat" in 1996 while evaluating a U.S. facility overseas, which he believed led to his early-onset Parkinson's diagnosis at age 45. Havana Syndrome, characterized by neurological ailments like dizziness and headaches, emerged in 2016 among over 200 government workers, primarily in overseas locations. Beck's case predates these reports, making him the earliest known individual to experience similar symptoms. The cause of Havana Syndrome remains undetermined despite extensive investigations.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

The Guardian 30% Columbia, Md 40% Charles W. Gubete 50% United States 50% Havana, Cuba 60% Parkinson's disease ×260% National Security Agency ×270% Havana Syndrome ×390% Michael Beck ×6100%

Keywords

havana syndrome 100% michael beck 90% neurological symptoms 80% parkinson's disease 70% direct-energy device 60% u.s. government facilities overseas 50% federal employees 50% national security agency 40% counterintelligence officer 40%