A wooden skiff believed to be transporting migrants to the U.S. capsized in stormy waters near San Diego, with at least four casualties confirmed and several others hospitalized, according to the Coast Guard. The boat was discovered off Imperial Beach late Friday night after reports of individuals struggling in the surf. Initial findings revealed six survivors by midnight, but among them, one was tragically pronounced dead, while another was rescued from beneath the vessel.
Authorities received subsequent calls regarding three further individuals found unresponsive in the ocean, all confirmed deceased. The U.S. Coast Guard is actively searching for any additional survivors or victims.
Reports indicate that several survivors are of Mexican nationality, while some remain unidentified. One individual has been handed over to the Department of Homeland Security for processing.
Coast Guard Capt. Robert Tucker highlighted the perilous nature of attempting to cross the U.S. border by sea, particularly in small, unstable vessels. Amidst the turmoil, storm systems in Southern California have raised concerns about flash flooding and mudslides, intensifying the hazards faced by those at sea.
This incident is part of a broader trend of migrants opting for the dangerous nautical route in hopes of evading stringent land borders. Smugglers often utilize pangas—open fishing boats—under the cover of night, making long journeys in challenging conditions. Recent years have seen a rise in similar fatal incidents, and as many as 9,000 lives were lost last year attempting to cross borders globally, signaling an ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Authorities received subsequent calls regarding three further individuals found unresponsive in the ocean, all confirmed deceased. The U.S. Coast Guard is actively searching for any additional survivors or victims.
Reports indicate that several survivors are of Mexican nationality, while some remain unidentified. One individual has been handed over to the Department of Homeland Security for processing.
Coast Guard Capt. Robert Tucker highlighted the perilous nature of attempting to cross the U.S. border by sea, particularly in small, unstable vessels. Amidst the turmoil, storm systems in Southern California have raised concerns about flash flooding and mudslides, intensifying the hazards faced by those at sea.
This incident is part of a broader trend of migrants opting for the dangerous nautical route in hopes of evading stringent land borders. Smugglers often utilize pangas—open fishing boats—under the cover of night, making long journeys in challenging conditions. Recent years have seen a rise in similar fatal incidents, and as many as 9,000 lives were lost last year attempting to cross borders globally, signaling an ongoing humanitarian crisis.
