Camp Pendleton Marine killed in San Clemente car crash identified

A 22-year-old Marine who died in a car crash this weekend in San Clemente was identified as Cpl. Edmond Vandecasteele IV, said a spokesman for the 1st Marine Division at Camp Pendleton today.

Vandecasteele, an ammunition technician from New Hampshire, was in a car with three other Marines when the driver lost control and struck a tree on Avenida Vista Montana at about 2:15 a.m. Saturday, according to Lt. Joshua Benson of Camp Pendleton authorities with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

Benson said the driver of the vehicle, who has not been identified, was taken to a hospital in critical condition. The two other Marines in the accident were not seriously injured, Benson said.

-- Ari B. Bloomekatz

Comments

[Carissa]

Eddy was my cousin. I didn't get the chance to know him. It's so hard to say good-bye to a loved one, especially if it were my son. I don't know how I'd cope. I am so sorry that this happened to my family. We are staying strong, as hurt as we are, we're here for eachother. We miss you, Eddy.

[Henrietta]

I am so sorry to hear what happened to this young man. It saddens me to know he was so young. He must have made his family so proud when he decided to become one of the best, a Marine. Im sure he will be greatly missed. My condolences and prayers to the family.

[Daniel]

Sorry for your loss. Although he will be greatly missed. God had a special place for Eddy in heaven.