San Diego City Lifeguards responded to reports of two panga boats linked to human smuggling operations that washed ashore near Sea Lane early Friday morning.
One boat was found shattered in the surf line, battered by heavy waves, while the second rested higher on the beach. Lifeguards conducted an extensive search for individuals in the water but found no one.
Debris from the boats, including gas cans and 20 life preservers, was scattered in the surf and onshore. The U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Border Patrol were notified of the discovery.
U.S. Border Patrol agents have noted an increase in smuggling attempts via panga boats, particularly during periods of heavy fog along the coast. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the origin and intended purpose of the vessels.