Tragedy on California Coast: 3 Dead, 9 Missing After Boat Washes Ashore Near San Diego

A tragic scene unfolded Monday morning near San Diego when a small boat washed ashore in Del Mar, leaving three people dead and nine others missing. The U.S. Coast Guard launched a major search operation after receiving reports of an overturned vessel just off the coast.

The 12-foot panga-style boat — a type often linked to maritime smuggling attempts — was found capsized near the 200 block of Stratford Court. Officials say the vessel’s origin remains unknown, and the events leading up to its wreck remain unclear.

According to Fox11 Los Angeles, emergency responders located four survivors alongside the deceased individuals and transported them to a local hospital for treatment.

Search and Rescue in Full Swing

The Coast Guard confirmed they are actively searching for the nine missing people, deploying air and sea resources throughout the Del Mar coastline. “Look for increased law enforcement activity in the area,” the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office stated on social media, adding that deputies were assisting with rescue efforts.

Jorge Sanchez, deputy fire chief with the Encinitas Fire Department, told local reporters that those rescued had a range of injuries, some serious. Meanwhile, beachgoers and hikers reported seeing the boat flip near the shore just after sunrise around 6:30 a.m.

“A doctor hiking nearby called it in,” said Lt. Nick Backouris of the sheriff’s office. “They saw CPR being performed on the beach and ran over to help.”

What Is a Panga-Style Boat?

Pangas are narrow, open vessels originally intended for fishing. However, in recent years, they’ve been frequently linked to smuggling operations, especially along the Southern California coastline due to their low profile and speed.

The panga involved in Monday’s disaster measured about 12 feet long — far too small to safely carry a large number of people through open waters. Authorities have not confirmed whether this incident was related to human smuggling, but investigations are ongoing.

Similar Tragedies in the Past

This isn’t the first time such an event has ended in heartbreak. Back in 2023, two migrant boats attempted a similar approach near San Diego in heavy fog. One capsized, killing eight people — making it one of the deadliest smuggling tragedies in U.S. waters in recent memory.

As the search continues, the community in Del Mar remains on edge, watching the waters for any sign of those still unaccounted for. Officials have asked locals to avoid the area and report any debris, clothing, or signs of survivors along the shore.

The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office declined to release autopsy records at this time, citing the ongoing investigation.

This incident highlights the dangers of unregulated maritime crossings and the desperation some face that pushes them into perilous waters. More updates are expected as the search effort continues into the evening.