One US Marine was killed, another is in critical condition and a rescue operation is underway for eight more after a “mishap” training exercise with an amphibious assault vehicle off the coast of southern California on Thursday.
The deceased marine, whose name is kept hidden for 24 hours so that the family can be informed, was pronounced dead in a San Diego hospital on Thursday, according to a press release issued on Friday by the 1st Expeditionary Infantry Force of Marine.
The Marine in critical condition and another injured Marine in stable condition were taken to hospitals for treatment.
Fifteen Marines and a sailor were inside the vehicle for the training exercise near San Clemente Island on Thursday, when they reported taking water at approximately 5:45 pm, according to the statement.
Search and rescue efforts continued early Friday morning to find the eight service members who were missing. The Navy and Coast Guard were assisting in the search.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident. I ask that you keep our Marines, Sailors and their families in your prayers as we continue our search, ”Col. Christopher Bronzi, 15th Commander of the Navy Expeditionary Unit, said on Twitter.
The I Marine Expeditionary Force said it would investigate the incident.
