One US Marine was killed, two others were injured — one critically — and eight others remain missing in a training incident involving an amphibious assault vehicle off the coast of Southern California, officials said Friday.
Search and rescue efforts are underway after the incident occurred Thursday, according to the I Marine Expeditionary Force.
The dead Marine, whose name was being withheld so the family can be informed, was pronounced dead at a hospital in San Diego, according to a press release from the I Marine Expeditionary Force.
Two other Marines have been hospitalized, one in critical condition and another in stable condition, officials said.
“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,” said Col. Christopher Bronzi, 15th MEU Commanding Officer.
Fifteen Marines and one sailor were inside the vehicle near San Clemente Island when they reported taking on water about 5:45 p.m., the release said.
All the Marines are assigned to the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit.
The Navy and the Coast Guard are taking part in the search.
The I Marine Expeditionary Force is a Marine Air Ground Task Force whose mission is “generating, deploying, and employing ready forces and formations for crisis response, forward presence, major combat operations, and campaigns.”