One Marine is dead and eight others are still missing after an amphibious vehicle training session went awry off the southern coast of California on Thursday.
Sixteen Marines in the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit were on board the vehicle when it began taking on water around 5:45 p.m. local time. Three U.S. Navy helicopters, the Coast Guard, and the USS Makin Island, USS Somerset, and USS San Diego were scrambled to retrieve the Marines.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident,” tweeted Col. Christopher Bronzi, the commanding officer of the 15th MEU. “I ask that you keep our Marines, Sailors, and their families in your prayers as we continue our 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,” said Col. Christopher Bronzi, 15th MEU Commanding Officer.
— I MEF (@1stMEF) July 31, 2020
The accident occurred during a routine training exercise off the coast of San Clemente Island, the southernmost of the Channel Islands of California. Two recovered Marines were transported to a local hospital, and one is reported to be in critical condition.
The name of the fallen Marine has been withheld for the time being, and an investigation has been launched into the events leading up to the accident.
