San Diego, December 28, 2025
An unidentified man was discovered dead near the southbound State Route 163 embankment adjacent to Balboa Park in San Diego. The body was found early Friday morning by a passerby. The California Highway Patrol responded, and the man was pronounced dead shortly after. The cause of death is under investigation, with a toxicology report pending. Authorities are looking into the presence of a nearby tent and are urging anyone with information to contact the CHP.
San Diego, CA: Unidentified Man Found Dead Near Balboa Park
San Diego, CA – An unidentified man was found dead near the southbound State Route 163 embankment adjacent to Balboa Park on Friday morning. The body was discovered around 7:29 a.m. by a passerby near a fence at the top of the embankment at the Interstate 5 transition. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) responded to the scene and pronounced the man dead at 7:50 a.m. The cause of death is under investigation, with a toxicology report pending through the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office. The man, estimated to be about 40 years old, was found approximately 20 feet down from the fence line. A tent was located nearby, but it is unclear whether it was connected to the incident. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the CHP San Diego Area office at 858-293-6000.
Investigation Details
The CHP is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the man’s death. While the exact cause remains undetermined, the presence of the tent near the scene has raised questions. Investigators are working to establish any connection between the tent and the deceased individual. The toxicology report from the Medical Examiner’s Office is expected to provide further insights into the cause of death. As the investigation progresses, authorities are seeking assistance from the public to gather more information.
Background Information
Balboa Park, located in San Diego, is a renowned cultural and recreational area that attracts both locals and tourists. The park is situated near major freeways, including State Route 163 and Interstate 5, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors. The area where the body was found is known for its embankments and proximity to the park’s boundaries. While the park is generally considered safe, incidents like this highlight the importance of community awareness and vigilance. The CHP and other local authorities are committed to ensuring the safety of the public and are diligently working to resolve this case.
Related Incidents in the Area
In recent years, Balboa Park has been the site of several notable incidents. In March 2025, a third suspect was arrested in connection with the murder of James Garcia, whose body was found buried in the park in 2024. The San Diego Police Department continues to investigate this case to develop more information regarding Garcia’s death. Additionally, in October 2024, a suspicious package was found near the House of Israel in Balboa Park. The package was determined to be a hoax device, posing no danger to the public. These incidents underscore the ongoing efforts by authorities to maintain safety and address concerns within the park and surrounding areas.
Community Response
The discovery of the man’s body has raised concerns among local residents and visitors. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and report any suspicious activities to authorities. The San Diego Police Department and CHP emphasize the importance of public cooperation in maintaining safety. As investigations continue, updates will be provided to keep the community informed about developments in this case.
Contact Information
Anyone with information related to this incident is urged to contact the CHP San Diego Area office at 858-293-6000. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477. The cooperation of the community is vital in resolving this case and ensuring the safety of all individuals in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened near Balboa Park?
An unidentified man was found dead near the southbound State Route 163 embankment adjacent to Balboa Park on Friday morning. The cause of death is under investigation.
Who discovered the body?
A passerby found the body around 7:29 a.m. near a fence at the top of the embankment at the Interstate 5 transition.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The California Highway Patrol is investigating the circumstances surrounding the man’s death. A toxicology report is pending through the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Is there any connection between the tent and the deceased individual?
The presence of a tent near the scene has raised questions, but it is unclear whether it was connected to the incident. Investigators are working to establish any connection.
How can I provide information about this incident?
Anyone with information is urged to contact the CHP San Diego Area office at 858-293-6000. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Southbound State Route 163 embankment near Balboa Park, San Diego, CA |
| Discovery Time | Approximately 7:29 a.m. on Friday morning |
| Pronouncement of Death | 7:50 a.m. on the same day |
| Estimated Age of Deceased | About 40 years old |
| Proximity to Freeway | Near the Interstate 5 transition |
| Nearby Object | A tent was found near the scene |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing; toxicology report pending |
| Contact Information | CHP San Diego Area office at 858-293-6000; Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477 |
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