A wooden skiff believed to have been ferrying migrants towards the U.S. capsized in stormy seas near San Diego, leading to at least four deaths and several injuries, according to the Coast Guard.
The U.S. Border Patrol discovered the vessel in the surf off Imperial Beach late Friday night. Six individuals were located on the beach shortly before midnight, with one confirmed dead and another rescued from under the boat.
Authorities received an additional report about someone in the water near Imperial Beach Pier, which led to the Coast Guard finding three deceased individuals in the ocean a short while later.
The Coast Guard is conducting further searches for any possible survivors or victims who were on board the skiff.
Initial reports indicate that several survivors identified as Mexican nationals, with further investigations needed for the others. One individual has been handed over to the Department of Homeland Security.
Coast Guard Capt. Robert Tucker, Sector San Diego commander, highlighted the urgent need for caution by those attempting to enter the U.S. via dangerous sea routes: This case illustrates the severe risks posed to individuals attempting such journeys in unstable vessels.
A significant storm system impacted Southern California over the weekend, prompting warnings of flash floods and mudslides. The vessel involved in the incident was identified as a panga, an open fishing boat commonly utilized for smuggling migrants.
Migrants continue to resort to perilous sea crossings to avoid fortified land borders, with smugglers often operating in the darkness to navigate hundreds of miles from Mexico.
This tragic incident marks yet another addition to the rising number of maritime mishaps involving migrants attempting to reach California. Numerous similar accidents have been reported in recent years, highlighting the volatility and risks associated with these treacherous crossings.
