11 remain missing as search continues after boat sank off Mexico’s Baja coast

Rescue effort underway

Survivors told officials that 27 people had been aboard the boat. Sixteen were rescued on Friday, while the search continued for the other 11. The US Coast Guard and Navy searched by air and sea with help from the Mexican Navy. The Coast Guard said another helicopter would be deployed later on Saturday.

A Mayday call came from someone aboard at about 1am Friday, Coast Guard Lieutenant Santiago Tamburini said. A rescue helicopter arrived roughly two hours later, and pulling the 16 people from the water took about 90 minutes.

Survivors treated for injuries

Some of those rescued had severe injuries that officials said were consistent with shark bites. The Coast Guard provided first aid during the trip to San Diego. The Coast Guard said it launched aircraft and boats despite the incident occurring outside US waters. Official Charlie Valor said the agency was able to assist and had launched its resources.

Wider maritime risks

The sinking occurred about 225km west of Ensenada, an area popular with fishing and leisure craft that is also frequented by smugglers. Fatal attempts to carry refugees and migrants from Mexico to the United States have happened before. In May 2025, at least three people died when a boat overturned about 56km north of the US-Mexico border.