Search continues for 11 missing after boat sank off Mexico’s Baja coast | US-Mexico Border News
Search Continues for Missing After Boat Capsizes Off Baja California Coast
By Al Jazeera Staff
Published: Oct. 18, 2026
The U.S. Coast Guard continues its search for 11 individuals reported missing following the capsizing of a boat off the coast of Baja California, Mexico, on Friday. Sixteen survivors were rescued and treated for suspected shark bites during the operation.
According to a statement from the Coast Guard, several rescued individuals exhibited severe injuries consistent with shark bites and received critical first aid while being transported to San Diego.
Survivors indicated that there were 27 people aboard the vessel when it sank. The Coast Guard’s response involved multiple aircraft and boats, with assistance from the Mexican Navy. A helicopter is scheduled to be deployed later today to aid in the search efforts.
A Mayday call from the boat was received at approximately 1 a.m. Friday, Coast Guard Lieutenant Santiago Tamburini reported. Rescue teams arrived at the scene about two hours later, and it took them about 90 minutes to pull the 16 survivors from the water.
The boat sank approximately 225 kilometers (140 miles) west of Ensenada, a region known for fishing and leisure activities, as well as for activities related to smuggling. Though the incident occurred outside U.S. waters, Coast Guard officials emphasized their commitment to assist whenever possible.
The recounted incident brings to light the dangers associated with illegal transportation attempts from Mexico to the United States. Previous efforts have resulted in fatalities. Notably, in May 2025, at least three people perished when a boat capsized off the coast about 56 kilometers (35 miles) north of the U.S.-Mexico border. Additionally, in 2023, eight people died when two boats approached a San Diego beach in heavy fog, leading to one vessel capsizing.
The search for the missing individuals continues as authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to locate all onboard.
