Suspected Smuggling Boat Overturns in Water near Ocean Beach Pier Killing 1 and Sending 3 to Hospital
OCEAN BEACH, CA (April 11, 2022) – Eleobardo Garcia Lopez died in a boating accident near the Ocean Beach Pier early Sunday morning, April 10.
Witnesses called lifeguards at about 10:00 p.m. on Saturday to report there were people on a boat. Witnesses state the people screamed and asking for help and saying, “no police,” the San Diego Police Department said.
First responders were called around 12:45 a.m. after the capsized 30-foot panga boat was spotted near Dog Beach, according to the San Diego Lifeguard Service. The boat, with a number of unknown people on board, capsized during a big surf that was producing at least 8-foot waves.
Lifeguard teams searched in the water and found Lopez an hour later. They performed CPR on him, but he died at the scene. He was a 37-year-old Mexican national.
At this time, all indications are that this was an attempt to enter the U.S. illegally at sea, but CBP does not have any additional information.
Border Patrol did arrive at the scene and it was unclear if any arrests were made.
We express our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Eleobardo Lopez.
Talk to our excellent legal team at The Law Offices of Daniel Kim if you have lost a loved one in a boat accident. Our award-winning litigators who will work with you through every stage of the legal process. Our main goal is to help you obtain both justice and maximum compensation you deserve. Losing a family member in a tragic accident is never easy. While you cope with grief, we will handle the rest. Call (800) 895-7199 to schedule a free consultation. In addition, you can also request a copy of the police report from the accident. Above all, our team is here for you every step of the way.