Panga Boat Overturns at Torrey Pines, Three Dead, Several Missing

At least three people died and several others remain missing after a small panga boat overturned early Monday morning near Torrey Pines State Beach in San Diego. Emergency crews responded to the scene around 6:30 a.m., with lifeguards, firefighters, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other agencies conducting rescue and recovery operations. Authorities estimate there were about 18 people on board; four survivors were hospitalized, while search efforts for nine missing individuals continue along the shoreline and in the water. The chaotic scene drew immediate response from both professionals and bystanders, including doctors who stopped to perform CPR on victims. Although panga boats are sometimes associated with human smuggling, officials have not confirmed any such ties in this incident, focusing instead on rescue efforts. The boat, approximately 12 feet long, remains near the shoreline as authorities continue their investigation.