CRBC News
Politics
Conflict
Security
Economy
Science
Technology
Environment
Health
Culture
Society
Lifestyle
Security

21-Year-Old Pfc. Tanner F. Rubio Killed in Tactical Vehicle Mishap at Camp Pendleton

04:40 PM, 12/08/2025
21-Year-Old Pfc. Tanner F. Rubio Killed in Tactical Vehicle Mishap at Camp Pendleton

The Marine Corps identified Private First Class Tanner F. Rubio, 21, as the service member who died Wednesday in a tactical vehicle mishap at Camp Pendleton. Rubio, a Dixon, California native who joined the Corps in January 2025, served as an infantry rifleman with the 1st Marine Regiment and I MEF. Officials said the incident was not related to the Steel Knight exercise; an investigation is ongoing and leaders have expressed condolences.

The Marine Corps on Friday identified the service member who died Wednesday afternoon at Camp Pendleton as Private First Class Tanner F. Rubio, 21. Officials described the incident as a "tactical vehicle mishap" that occurred on the Southern California base in San Diego County.

Rubio, a native of Dixon, California, joined the Marine Corps in January 2025 and trained as an infantry rifleman. At the time of his death, he was assigned to a battalion in the 1st Marine Regiment of the 1st Marine Division and served with the I Marine Expeditionary Force (I MEF), the Corps' largest Marine Air-Ground Task Force.

"The tragic loss of Pfc. Rubio is one felt across the 1st Marine Division," Maj. Gen. Thomas Savage, commanding general of the 1st Marine Division, said in a statement. "He will be sorely missed, but his honorable service to his country will not be forgotten. All of us at the Blue Diamond will keep him and his family in our thoughts and prayers."

Officials emphasized that Rubio's death was not related to Steel Knight, an annual training exercise that began at Camp Pendleton earlier that week. State Senator Catherine Blakespear, whose district includes the base, called the accident "tremendously upsetting" and offered condolences to Rubio’s family, loved ones and fellow Marines.

"Our Marines put themselves in harm's way every day, even on home soil during routine training, so that our nation remains safe," Blakespear wrote on Facebook. "In this difficult moment, I extend my condolences to all who are mourning within the Camp Pendleton community."

Marine Corps and I MEF officials say an investigation into the mishap is underway. Media organizations have reached out to I MEF for additional information. The division and local leaders have pledged support for Rubio's family and the Camp Pendleton community as the inquiry continues.

Similar Articles

Trending