On April 15^th, 2021 at about 12:37 a.m., Sheriff's deputies from the Imperial Beach Station responded to the Imperial Beach Pier for a report of an intoxicated individual who had jumped into the ocean and was having difficulty swimming. Upon arrival, deputies found an adult male subject clinging to one of the pier's support pillars in the water. The subject suddenly became unresponsive and released his grasp on the pillar.  Two other individuals jumped into the water in an attempt to rescue the man.  It was later learned they were friends of the unresponsive individual. Imperial Beach Fire personnel arrived and supplied a long rope, which was used to make a lasso and was deployed into the water.  The rope was secured around the unresponsive individual's torso area. The subject was quickly extracted out of the water by deputies. Fire and Paramedic personnel immediately began lifesaving measures. 

The two other individuals were guided out of the water via the use of the rope and a water floatation device.  Imperial Beach Lifeguards assisted in the water rescue of the two friends.  The unresponsive subject was transported to Scripps Mercy Hospital Chula Vista but later succumbed to his injuries. The Medical Examiner's Office was notified and will be investigating the death. Alcohol is suspected to be a factor in the incident.

Media contact: Sgt. Robert Posada, Imperial Beach Station
Robert.posada@sdsheriff.org
(619) 498-2400