A Marine with a Camp Pendleton-based unit died and a search was underway Friday morning for eight others from that group following a training accident off the coast of San Clemente Island..
Marine officials said the incident happened at around 5:45 p.m. Thursday during a routine training exercise involving the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary Force, and Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, according to officials.
An amphibious assault vehicle with 15 Marines and one sailor inside reported taking water during the exercise, officials said.
Seven members of the group were rescued and taken to the hospital, but officials confirmed one of them -- a Marine -- died at Scripps La Jolla Hospital. Two others, both Marines, were in critical and stable conditions, respectively.
The eight missing members remained missing as of Friday morning and were being searched for by the Navy's USS John Finn, three Navy helicopters, several smaller Navy vessels and a U.S. Coast Guard ship and helicopter, Marine 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.
WATCH: 10News Reporter at Scripps Hospital in La Jolla.
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