Three Dead, Nine Missing Including Two Children After Panga Boat Capsizes Off San Diego; Search Suspended

A small boat believed to be carrying migrants capsized off the coast of San Diego, resulting in the deaths of at least three people and leaving nine others missing. The incident occurred early Monday morning near Torrey Pines State Beach, with an estimated 18 people on board. The boat, identified as a panga, flipped in high surf, leading to the immediate deaths of three individuals, all males. Four survivors were rescued and taken to Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla for treatment of respiratory-related issues.

The search for the missing individuals, which included two children from an Indian family, involved helicopters, boats, and ground teams. Despite these efforts, the search was later suspended, marking the incident as a mass casualty event. Multiple agencies, including the U.S. Coast Guard, San Diego County Sheriff's Office, and the Department of Homeland Security, responded to the emergency.

Authorities have not confirmed the cause of the incident, but it is suspected to be related to a human smuggling operation. The Department of Homeland Security described the event as a stark reminder of the dangers of maritime smuggling. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.