La Jolla, California — A tragic incident unfolded off Torrey Pines State Beach early Monday morning when a panga boat capsized, claiming the lives of at least three individuals, with authorities still engaged in a search for additional victims.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office reported that the overturned vessel was spotted around 6:30 a.m. near the 12000 block of North Torrey Pines Road. As emergency services mobilized, the U.S. Coast Guard confirmed that crews were working diligently to locate nine individuals who remained unaccounted for following the accident. Reports concerning the total number of passengers aboard the boat varied, with estimates suggesting that up to 18 people may have been on board.
Witnesses at the scene noted that three bodies had been discovered along the shoreline, compounding the urgency of the search efforts. Divers and rescue teams employed aerial surveillance in conjunction with watercraft to scour the area for any additional survivors or victims.
First responders, including personnel from the San Diego Police Department, Border Patrol, and lifeguards, concentrated their efforts on both rescue operations and managing the chaotic scene. The rapid response exemplified the coordination among multiple agencies grappling with the tragedy.
Panga boats are typically small, open vessels often used for smuggling activities along the coast of Southern California, and this incident has raised concerns regarding the dangers these boats pose to those attempting risky maritime journeys.
As the search operation continued into the afternoon, community members expressed their sorrow over the loss of life and the impact on families involved. Many locals gathered at the beach area, paying their respects while remaining hopeful that additional survivors might be found.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the boat’s capsizing is ongoing. Authorities have not yet released details about the identities of the victims or the exact cause of the incident, leaving many questions unanswered as the community comes to terms with the event.