Teen Sentenced for Carjacking Murder of Navy Sailor

Ricardo Vazquez-Gongora, 19, was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison for second-degree murder following the death of Eddie Foster, a 32-year-old Navy sailor and father of four, during a carjacking incident in Coronado. On June 11, 2023, while working as an Amazon delivery driver, Foster attempted to prevent the theft by clinging to the hood of his car, which Vazquez-Gongora drove recklessly for several miles before crashing into a toll booth. Foster suffered severe injuries and later died after being taken off life support, prompting murder charges against Vazquez-Gongora, who had fled the scene and was found hiding nearby. Foster's widow described the devastating impact of this crime on her family, while his mother expressed forgiveness but urged for accountability. The court noted Vazquez-Gongora's history of substance abuse during the crime. Following his death, Foster's organs were donated, fulfilling his wish to help others even in death.