SAN DIEGO — A boat capsized off the coast near San Diego on Monday, resulting in the deaths of three individuals, while four others sustained injuries and nine remain unaccounted for, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.
The Coast Guard is actively searching for the nine missing persons approximately 15 miles north of downtown San Diego, near Torrey Pines State Beach. The search operation continued into Monday afternoon, with officials emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
Four injured individuals were transported to hospitals, where their conditions range from mild to severe, stated Encinitas Deputy Fire Chief Jorge Sanchez. He acknowledged the possibility of the incident escalating into a mass casualty event, depending on the fate of those still missing.
Coast Guard officials reported uncertainty regarding the origins of the small boat, described as a 12-foot panga, before it overturned. Although 17 life jackets were recovered from the water, it is unclear how many individuals were onboard at the time of the incident.
Witnesses at Torrey Pines State Beach reported seeing the boat capsize around 6:30 a.m. A nearby hiker, who identified as a doctor, provided aid and reported seeing individuals administering CPR on the beach. The situation has since prompted an official investigation by California State Parks.
Multiple agencies are coordinating responses to the incident, including the U.S. Coast Guard, San Diego Sheriff’s Department, Del Mar Lifeguards, California State Parks, and U.S. Border Patrol. A 45-foot rescue boat and a helicopter have been deployed to aid in the search efforts.
In the morning, a small craft advisory was issued by the National Weather Service, warning of hazardous conditions for smaller boats. Historically, pangas, which are typically open fishing boats, have been associated with smuggling activities along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Coast Guard Petty Officer Chris Sappey indicated that the individuals on the capsized boat are believed to be migrants rather than tourists. While he noted that similar vessels have transported migrants in the past, he clarified that their immigration status has yet to be confirmed.
In light of this incident, it is worth noting that earlier this year, eight individuals lost their lives when two migrant smuggling boats capsized in heavy fog off a San Diego beach, marking one of the deadliest events of its kind in recent memory. Authorities continue to gather information regarding the individuals involved and their circumstances.