A capsized boat off Torrey Pines State Beach leaves multiple casualties and missing persons, including members of an Indian family; U.S. and Indian authorities launch coordinated rescue and support efforts.
San Diego (California), May 6:
A devastating maritime incident off Torrey Pines State Beach, just north of downtown San Diego, claimed the lives of three people, left four injured, and nine others missing, including two Indian children, as confirmed by CNN and local authorities.
The tragedy unfolded early Monday morning when a 12-foot panga-style boat capsized in rough surf conditions around 6:30 a.m., approximately 15 miles from downtown San Diego. Among the passengers was an Indian family, whose parents are currently being treated at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, while their two children are still unaccounted for.
Witnesses Spark Emergency Response
According to San Diego Sheriff’s Lt. Nick Backouris, a hiker — who happened to be a doctor — saw CPR being performed on the beach and immediately called emergency services. Multiple agencies responded swiftly, including California State Parks, the U.S. Coast Guard, Border Patrol, and Del Mar Lifeguards.
The U.S. Coast Guard dispatched a 45-foot rescue boat and helicopter, while emergency crews continued search-and-rescue operations through Monday afternoon. So far, 17 life jackets have been recovered, but the exact number of individuals aboard remains unclear.
India Confirms Involvement of Nationals
The Consulate General of India in San Francisco issued a public statement on social media platform X, confirming that an Indian family was among the victims.
“While two Indian children are missing, the parents are undergoing treatment… The Consulate is providing all necessary assistance in coordination with local authorities,” read the statement, expressing grief and solidarity.
Suspected Smuggling and Ongoing Investigation
Authorities believe the vessel — often used in smuggling operations — may not have carried tourists. Although Coast Guard Petty Officer Chris Sappey indicated the possibility of it being part of a migrant operation, he emphasized that the immigration status of those on board is not confirmed.
The California State Parks Department confirmed that the incident is under active investigation. Encinitas Deputy Fire Chief Jorge Sanchez noted the grim potential of the scene, calling it a “mass casualty event” depending on the fate of the nine missing individuals.
This tragic incident echoes a similar boat capsizing in 2023 off the San Diego coast, where eight lives were lost. As the rescue operations continue, international coordination between Indian and U.S. authorities is underway to support the victims and their families and determine the origins and purpose of the ill-fated journey.