At least 11 people remain missing after a boat capsized off the coast of Baja California, Mexico. Several survivors reportedly suffered injuries consistent with shark bites. The US Coast Guard rescued 16 people from the water. The Coast Guard said several survivors had serious injuries. Its personnel provided emergency first aid and helped save lives. The injured survivors are receiving treatment at a nearby hospital. "Several of the rescued people have serious injuries indicative of shark bites, and the Coast Guard has performed life-saving first aid," the authority wrote in a statement. The US Coast Guard and Navy have launched a search operation to find the missing passengers. They are using several boats and aircraft. The Mexican Navy is also helping with the rescue effort, according to the Los Angeles Times. The Coast Guard said it would deploy another helicopter later on Saturday to expand the search.

Boat Capsizes in Area Known for Smuggling

The Los Angeles Times reported that the boat capsized in an area known for smuggling activities. The incident occurred outside US territorial waters. Survivors told rescue officials that 27 people were on board when the boat overturned. Petty Officer Charlie Valor explained why the Coast Guard launched its rescue teams. “We were able to help, and that’s why we launched our assets,” Valor said on Saturday. The region attracts fishing enthusiasts and recreational boaters. However, authorities have also seen deadly attempts to transport migrants from Mexico to the United States in the past. After the incident, the Mexican consulate in San Diego confirmed that all 16 rescued passengers were Mexican nationals.

Authorities Investigate as Search for Missing Passengers Continues

The US Coast Guard said Customs and Border Protection was investigating the incident. Officials were also interviewing survivors to gather more information about what happened. The agency did not immediately respond to requests for further updates. The authorities are also examining whether the survivors witnessed a crime. In certain cases, people who assist law enforcement as witnesses may qualify for humanitarian parole. This provision can allow eligible individuals to stay in the United States temporarily. Rescue teams continued searching the waters on Saturday. They deployed helicopters, a fixed-wing aircraft, a Coast Guard cutter and a Navy combat ship. The Mexican Navy also joined the operation. At least 11 people remain missing. Rescue teams continue to search the area as authorities investigate the incident and work to locate the remaining passengers.