Ricardo Vazquez Gongora, who stole a car and raced through Coronado with its owner on the hood before slamming into a concrete barrier, has been sentenced to 15 years to life in the death of Edward Foster.
Foster, a U.S. Navy sailor, was moonlighting as an Amazon delivery driver on June 11, 2023, when Vazquez-Gongora attempted to steal his car. Foster clung to the roof of his car. Vazquez-Gongora crashed into the toll plaza on the Coronado side of the San Diego-Coronado Bridge.
Foster was transported to the hospital, but later died. At his family’s request, his organs were donated.
Vazquez-Gongora fled after crashing, and was found hiding in bushes nearby. He pled guilty on May 3 of this year. On Oct. 11, he was sentenced to 15 years to life-in-prison.
Vazquez-Gongora, who was 18 at the time of the crime, received his stipulated sentence from San Diego Superior Court Judge Michael Popkins.
Foster was 32 and a father of four. He was stationed at Naval Air Station North Island.
“The victim in this case, who was a father working to support his family, tragically lost his life due to a set of circumstances set in motion by this defendant’s utter disregard for human life,” said San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan in a statement. “We hope the resolution of this case brings a measure of justice and closure to the victim’s family.”
Deputy District attorneys Makenzie Harvey and Donald McCann prosecuted this case.
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Bad people and criminals aside, there should never be a reason why any of our Navy or any other military has to work a second job to support their families. The people in DC pay themselves but do not support the people that provide our freedoms a living wage remotely comparable to the sacrifices they make for each and every one of us and our country!
This undesirable should never see the light of day……a very
sad & senseless story…….
Outrageously lenient, but no suprise in crazytown California.
Progressive does NOT equal progress.
More crime is coming your way California courtesy of compassionate misguided Californians who are safe in their wealthy/gated/guarded communities.
Jeff
WOW !!! He will only be 33 years old when he could possibly released. Mr. Foster was only 32 when his life was taken. Gondora should spend the rest of his life in jail.
15 years under the circumstances is not anywhere enough time served. Guess this should be termed California justice. I loved living there but I know why I left. My heart goes out to the family of this young sailor. May he rest in peace.
Should have been the death penalty.