Coast Guard Ends Search for 11 Missing After Boat Capsizes Off Mexico

The U.S. Coast Guard has concluded its search for 11 individuals presumed missing after a boat carrying 27 people capsized in the Pacific Ocean on Friday. The search operation, which involved the Coast Guard, Mexican authorities, and the U.S. Navy, covered over 2,441 square miles and lasted for 89 hours before being suspended on Sunday evening.

Rescue efforts began after multiple distress calls were received around 1 a.m. on Friday, reporting a vessel taking on water. Helicopter crews arrived shortly after and rescued 16 survivors who were found clinging to debris. Among them, three individuals were treated for injuries resembling shark bites. All survivors are Mexican nationals and were taken to a Coast Guard base in San Diego, with two in critical condition.

The circumstances surrounding the boat's journey remain unclear, although the Coast Guard indicated that the route is often associated with illegal smuggling operations. An investigation led by Homeland Security Investigations is underway, with U.S. Customs and Border Protection interviewing the survivors.