US Coast Guard rescues 16 people off Baja Coast, searches for more

The U.S. Coast Guard rescued 16 people from the Pacific Ocean off Mexico’s Baja California coast after responding to a May Day call reporting a sinking vessel. The rescue occurred about 140 miles west of Ensenada, Mexico, in an area known for migrant smuggling as well as fishing and leisure boating.

According to theepochtimes.com, the rescued individuals were Mexican nationals, as reported by the Mexican consulate. The boat’s origin, destination, and purpose were unclear, and no vessel was found at the scene, only debris. The Coast Guard in San Diego said it was uncertain what type of boat was involved.

A rescue helicopter reached the site roughly two hours after the distress call was received around 1 a.m. Coast Guard Lt. Santiago Tamburini said it took about 90 minutes to pull the 16 people from the water, where they were holding onto each other and debris to stay afloat.

Among the rescued, one person was treated for a suspected shark bite and two others were in critical condition due to cold exposure, according to theepochtimes.com. The rescued individuals were flown to San Diego and transported to local hospitals, with some treated at Scripps Mercy Hospital, according to wwaytv3.com.

The Coast Guard continues searching a 950 square nautical mile area for up to 11 additional people believed to be missing. The incident highlights the dangers of the region’s waters, which are described as unforgiving by the Coast Guard.

The Coast Guard in San Diego is leading the ongoing search and rescue operation, with no further details on the boat or passengers available at this time.