Three people are confirmed dead and nine others remain unaccounted for after a Panga Boat overturned or washed ashore near San Diego Monday morning.
Authorities said rescue and recovery operations are underway off the coast.
The incident occurred near Torrey Pines State Beach. The San Diego Sheriff's Department responded to the area.
A 12-foot vessel was found capsized near the shoreline, according to officials.
Four people from the boat were transported to local hospitals for medical care.
A person on board told rescuers that 18 individuals were believed to have been on the boat. At least two were minors.
Lifeguards and a helicopter were involved in searching the waters for additional victims.
Deputies reported that several doctors on their way to work stopped to provide aid and perform CPR.
The U.S. Coast Guard reported nine missing individuals following the incident.
Authorities stated it is not yet known whether the individuals on board were undocumented immigrants.
The Sheriff's Department confirmed they did not detain anyone at the scene.
Encinitas Deputy Fire Chief Jorge Sanchez said responders were conducting due diligence by checking if anyone else remained in the water.
