4 People Killed in Horrific Boat Accident near Imperial Beach Pier [San Diego, CA]

4 Dead in San Diego Boat Crash near Imperial Beach Pier

SAN DIEGO, CA (November 17, 2025) – Saturday morning, a horrific boat accident near Imperial Beach Pier killed 4 people.

Reports said that the incident occurred at around 12:00 a.m. near Imperial Beach Pier.

Border Patrol said the incident began when agents responded to a suspected maritime smuggling attempt south of the Imperial Beach Pier. The vessel was seen capsizing in the surf during the storm.

Multiple agencies joined the search. Nine people were pulled from the water. Five were rescued and taken to local hospitals. Four were confirmed dead.

Imperial Beach Fire Chief John French said one body was recovered near the capsized boat and three more were found near the pier. Heavy surf and ongoing rain made the search difficult.

The Coast Guard said the response began after a good Samaritan reported seeing someone in the water near the pier at about 1:45 a.m. A Coast Guard boat crew located three people and took them to Ballast Point, where medics pronounced all three dead. Another victim was pronounced dead on the beach. One person was found trapped under the vessel and survived.

Four survivors were taken to the hospital. Another was taken into custody by Border Patrol. Several of the rescued individuals said they were Mexican nationals, while others have not yet been identified.

Capt. Robert Tucker, Coast Guard Sector San Diego commander, said the case highlights the danger faced by people attempting to reach the U.S. by sea in unsafe boats.

Coast Guard crews continued searching through Saturday with support from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office, Chula Vista Fire Department, U.S. Navy, and the county medical examiner. The investigation remains open.

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Sweet Lawyers extends our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the victims. May the bereaved find comfort in this extremely difficult time.

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Truth About the Horrific Boat Accident near Imperial Beach Pier

Boating accidents can happen to anyone. That is why it is important to wear a life jacket, check your equipment, and watch out for weather updates. This way, you can avoid possible risks and prevent unfortunate results.

When involved in a serious boating accident, it is important to have strong legal representation on your side. Moreover, with over 40 years of experience in the field, our team knows what it takes to win your case. Sweet Lawyers has dealt with a variety of cases including wrongful death, auto accident, disability, and personal injury. Untiringly, we will fight to achieve the justice and compensation your family deserves. Call our offices today at (800) 203-3061 for a free consultation at a location near you. For your convenience, we are also available to our clients 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week through email, text message, phone call, and online chat.