A migrant died trying to swim from Mexico to the United States and 13 others were rescued from the Pacific Ocean in San Diego late Friday night, Border Patrol officials said Saturday.
The woman, who died in the water, is believed to have been part of an attempt by a group of about 70 people to enter the United States illegally by swimming around the border barrier and heading to the beach at Border Field State Park, the spokeswoman said. US Customs and Border Protection Jackie Wasiluk.
The incident occurred shortly after 11:30 p.m., bringing Border Patrol agents, CBP air and marine officers, Coast Guard crews, San Diego firefighters and first responders, and personnel from San Diego to shore. California State Parks.
Authorities tried to revive the woman, but she died at the scene.
The Coast Guard deployed a helicopter as part of search and rescue efforts, said Coast Guard Public Affairs Specialist 1st Class Adam Stanton.
“We pulled 13 people out of the water and brought them to shore, turning them over to the Border Patrol because it is their jurisdiction to process them and get them back to where they need to be,” Stanton said.
Border Patrol agents detained a total of 36 Mexican citizens – 25 men and 11 women – including the 13 rescued. All were taken to a nearby Border Patrol station for processing. Officials did not say if anyone was injured.
Coast Guard personnel, firefighters and California State Park workers continued to search the area to try to locate other people in distress.
“This is another example of the ruthless tactics smuggling organizations use to bolster their power and profits,” San Diego Sector Chief Border Patrol Agent Aaron Heitke said in a statement. “We will work tirelessly to pursue and bring to justice those responsible for this tragedy.”
The sea route – especially by boat – has become increasingly popular in the last two years, as authorities have tightened border surveillance on land.
Reporter Kristina Davis contributed to this report.
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