United States: A sorrowful toll of three lives was marked on Monday when a watercraft capsized in the oceanic stretch near San Diego. Emergency responders — including US Coast Guard units, beach lifeguards, and county sheriff’s deputies — launched an intense and urgent sweep of the surrounding waters in hopes of finding more survivors or recovering additional casualties.
Authorities indicated that the individuals aboard seemed to be migrants, though the precise count of occupants remains elusive.
“This incident appears to involve a human smuggling operation — no narcotics involved — likely stemming from regions south of the national boundary,” explained Petty Officer Chris Sappey, spokesperson for the US Coast Guard, according to NBC News.
Among those aboard were at least two minors, Sappey added gravely.
Hospitalizations and Continuing Uncertainty
Beyond the confirmed fatalities, four individuals endured injuries severe enough to require immediate ambulance transport to nearby medical centers, according to Encinitas Deputy Fire Chief Jorge Sanchez in a statement to NBC News.
A lone survivor from the vessel — described as a panga boat, which is a small, open-style marine craft powered by outboard motors — informed rescuers that the boat had 18 passengers. However, it’s still unknown how many might remain unaccounted for or may have independently reached the sands of Torrey Pines State Beach.
At least 3 dead, multiple people missing after boat of migrants overturns near San Diego – NBC News. https://t.co/AebcPghlH4
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“We’re conducting an exhaustive sweep of the area to make sure no one else is left adrift,” Sanchez stated. “At this juncture, there are no additional updates regarding those who may be missing or located.”
Ongoing Maritime Response Efforts
In a formal update, the US Coast Guard acknowledged that nine individuals are classified as “unlocated” in the wake of the incident, which was initially reported as a capsized vessel near the waters of Del Mar, as per NBC News.
Law enforcement officers from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department are also supporting efforts at the shoreline near the 200 block of Stratford Court, where the aftermath of the marine disaster is being addressed.
First responders have cast a wide net in their pursuit — using helicopters to scan from above, lifeguards navigating jet skis and boats on the surf, and personnel patrolling the beach on foot. Their collective aim is to spot any remaining victims needing urgent medical care.