Imperial Beach, California, November 21, 2025
David Alfonso Barrera Nunes, 37, faces charges related to a tragic boat capsizing off Imperial Beach, resulting in the deaths of four migrants. The U.S. federal prosecutors allege he refused to return the vessel despite engine troubles, leading to the disaster on November 14, 2025. His charges include human smuggling for financial gain, which could lead to life imprisonment or the death penalty. The case highlights the dangers of maritime smuggling operations and the ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety of individuals attempting to enter the U.S. by sea.
San Diego, CA
Alleged Boat Captain Charged in Smuggling Attempt Near Imperial Beach That Killed 4
David Alfonso Barrera Nunes, 37, has been charged by San Diego federal prosecutors in connection with a boat capsizing off Imperial Beach that resulted in the deaths of at least four migrants. The incident occurred on November 14, 2025, when the vessel, believed to be carrying nine people, capsized around midnight. Four individuals were confirmed dead, and five others were hospitalized. Barrera Nunes is scheduled for a detention hearing on Friday. The charges include bringing people into the country illegally for financial gain, resulting in death, which carries a potential sentence of up to life in prison or the death penalty upon conviction.
Details of the Incident
According to the criminal complaint, passengers reported that the boat experienced engine trouble during the journey. Despite multiple requests to return to Mexico, Barrera Nunes allegedly refused. He later contacted someone to inquire about a “closer drop location.” After the boat capsized, Barrera Nunes was the second person to reach shore and did not attempt to rescue any passengers. The complaint also mentions a co-captain whose whereabouts remain unknown. The surviving passengers were rescued and transported to a hospital for treatment.
Background Context
This tragic event underscores the dangers associated with maritime smuggling operations. The U.S. Coast Guard and partner agencies responded promptly to the incident. Captain Robert Tucker emphasized the severe risks posed to individuals attempting to enter the United States by sea in unstable vessels. Similar incidents have occurred in the region, highlighting the ongoing challenges in combating human smuggling and ensuring the safety of all individuals involved.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What charges has David Alfonso Barrera Nunes faced?
David Alfonso Barrera Nunes, 37, has been charged by San Diego federal prosecutors in connection with a boat capsizing off Imperial Beach that resulted in the deaths of at least four migrants. The charges include bringing people into the country illegally for financial gain, resulting in death, which carries a potential sentence of up to life in prison or the death penalty upon conviction.
What happened during the boat incident off Imperial Beach?
According to the criminal complaint, passengers reported that the boat experienced engine trouble during the journey. Despite multiple requests to return to Mexico, Barrera Nunes allegedly refused. He later contacted someone to inquire about a “closer drop location.” After the boat capsized, Barrera Nunes was the second person to reach shore and did not attempt to rescue any passengers. The complaint also mentions a co-captain whose whereabouts remain unknown. The surviving passengers were rescued and transported to a hospital for treatment.
What is the background of maritime smuggling incidents in the region?
This tragic event underscores the dangers associated with maritime smuggling operations. The U.S. Coast Guard and partner agencies responded promptly to the incident. Captain Robert Tucker emphasized the severe risks posed to individuals attempting to enter the United States by sea in unstable vessels. Similar incidents have occurred in the region, highlighting the ongoing challenges in combating human smuggling and ensuring the safety of all individuals involved.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Off the coast of Imperial Beach, California |
| Date of Incident | November 14, 2025 |
| Number of People Aboard | 9 |
| Casualties | 4 confirmed dead, 5 hospitalized |
| Charges Against Captain | Bringing people into the country illegally for financial gain, resulting in death |
| Potential Sentence | Up to life in prison or the death penalty upon conviction |
| Co-Captain’s Status | Unidentified and whereabouts unknown |
| Response Agencies | U.S. Coast Guard and partner agencies |
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Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
