Imperial Beach, CA – Four people died and several others were injured after a panga boat carrying migrants capsized in rough surf off Imperial Beach. Federal prosecutors have charged two men in connection with the deadly smuggling attempt, describing the incident as a preventable tragedy fueled by reckless decisions at sea.
Authorities said the vessel overturned amid six-foot waves as it approached the coastline. Survivors told investigators the boat had experienced engine trouble before the captain insisted on continuing toward shore, triggering panic and pleas from passengers to turn back.
Incident Summary
According to details included in a federal complaint, the voyage began on November 14 when U.S. Customs and Border Protection detected a small boat crossing the international maritime boundary. Roughly an hour later, agents arrived at Imperial Beach to find the panga overturned in the surf, with survivors emerging from the water and others trapped beneath the vessel.
A total of nine people were believed to be aboard. Four died, while five were rescued or detained and taken to hospitals. The conditions were made worse by high waves and the boat’s mechanical failures.
Charges Against the Suspected Smugglers
In a release referenced through Fox News Digital, federal prosecutors said David Alfonso Barrera Nunes, a Mexican national believed to be the vessel’s captain, was arrested on Saturday. He was charged in connection with the deaths of the four passengers.
Another individual, Luis Enrique Barreto Goitia, also a Mexican national, faces charges of Bringing in Aliens Resulting in Death and Bringing in Aliens for Financial Gain.
A third man on board, identified as a previously removed migrant, has been charged with illegal reentry. Records show he had been deported earlier this month and was originally removed from the U.S. in 2012.
Survivor Accounts of Fear and Chaos
Witness statements described a harrowing sequence of events. Passengers reported that the boat experienced mechanical issues, leading to a heated argument with the captain. Several begged him to turn back to Mexico, but prosecutors said Barrera Nunes refused, attempting to push toward the shore despite having no engine power.
One survivor told agents he became trapped inside the submerged cabin but found a pocket of air that allowed him to survive until rescue crews flipped the vessel.
Another man recounted joining the journey only because his granddaughter wanted to cross. According to the complaint, the captain ordered everyone to jump overboard moments before the panga rolled. The grandfather managed to free his granddaughter but became trapped himself and sustained a severe leg injury from a metal object before being rescued.
Background and Smuggling Dangers
Panga boats are frequently used for illegal maritime smuggling along the Southern California coast, but these journeys are often deadly. Overloaded vessels, poor visibility, and unpredictable surf conditions make nighttime crossings especially hazardous. Federal agencies have repeatedly warned that human smuggling by sea is among the most dangerous methods of illegal entry into the U.S.
Efforts to Combat Maritime Smuggling
Authorities in the region have increased patrols, deployed surveillance systems, and coordinated with Mexican officials to monitor smuggling routes. The goal is to identify vessels before they reach U.S. waters and to prevent tragedies like this one. Officials note that smugglers often prioritize profit over safety, leaving migrants vulnerable to harsh conditions and deadly decisions.
Community and Border Safety Considerations
Incidents like this highlight the ongoing risks along San Diego’s coastline, where both residents and tourists often encounter emergency rescues tied to maritime smuggling. Public safety agencies continue advising beachgoers to remain aware of unusual vessels or distressed individuals and to alert authorities immediately.
Conclusion
The deadly capsizing off Imperial Beach underscores the extreme danger of maritime smuggling attempts. With two men now facing federal charges and multiple survivors left traumatized or injured, officials say the tragedy should serve as a reminder of the risks posed by illicit crossings.
