San Diego, December 7, 2025
San Diego authorities are intensifying efforts to combat illegal watercraft rentals following a tragic jet ski accident that resulted in the death of a 12-year-old girl. Legal actions and increased enforcement by the Coast Guard aim to enhance public safety, yet challenges persist in completely regulating unauthorized rentals. Continuous monitoring and public awareness are deemed vital to ensure the safety of those engaging in water activities.
San Diego Cracks Down on Illegal Watercraft Rentals Amid Safety Concerns
San Diego, California – In response to recent watercraft accidents, including a tragic fatality, local authorities and businesses are intensifying efforts to curb illegal watercraft rentals in the region. Despite these measures, questions remain about their effectiveness in ensuring public safety.
Fatal Incident Sparks Legal Action
In July 2025, a 12-year-old girl was fatally struck by a jet ski in Mission Bay while paddleboarding. The incident led to a federal wrongful death lawsuit filed by the victim’s family against the U.S. Coast Guard and the Army Corps of Engineers. The lawsuit alleges that the agencies failed to maintain safe conditions for water activities, highlighting the need for clear separation between watercraft zones and areas designated for swimmers and paddleboarders. Additionally, the suit points to the lack of adequate safety patrols and signage as contributing factors to the tragedy. The family had previously filed a state lawsuit against the city and county of San Diego, as well as the online marketplace OfferUp, which was used to rent the jet ski involved in the accident. The individual operating the jet ski, Arsanyous Refat Ghaly, was criminally charged and pleaded guilty to vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, receiving a sentence of 230 days in jail and probation. Data from the jet ski indicated it was traveling between 47 and 53 mph at the time of the collision, in an area where watercraft operators are required to maintain speeds below 5 mph.
Increased Enforcement and Legal Actions
In response to the rising number of illegal watercraft rentals, the U.S. Coast Guard has been actively terminating unauthorized charter operations in San Diego. In May 2025, the Coast Guard halted the operation of a 26-foot pleasure craft carrying 11 individuals, including 10 passengers for hire and one unlicensed crew member. The vessel was cited for multiple violations, including operating without a valid Certificate of Inspection and employing a non-credentialed mariner. These actions underscore the Coast Guard’s commitment to enforcing regulations and ensuring public safety on the water.
Challenges in Enforcement and Compliance
Despite these enforcement efforts, challenges persist in curbing illegal watercraft rentals. In July 2021, San Diego Fire-Rescue Department lifeguards and the San Diego Police Department impounded more than 30 boats, most of which were personal watercraft (PWC) rented illegally within Mission Bay. The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department emphasized that unlicensed rental businesses lack insurance coverage, posing significant risks to patrons. This situation highlights the ongoing struggle to regulate and monitor watercraft rentals effectively.
Conclusion
While San Diego’s increased enforcement actions and legal measures aim to address the issue of illegal watercraft rentals, the effectiveness of these efforts remains uncertain. Continuous monitoring, stricter regulations, and enhanced public awareness are essential to ensure the safety of all individuals engaging in water activities in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What led to the recent crackdown on illegal watercraft rentals in San Diego?
The crackdown was initiated in response to a series of watercraft accidents, including a fatal incident in July 2025, where a 12-year-old girl was killed by a jet ski in Mission Bay. This tragedy, along with other incidents, prompted local authorities and businesses to intensify efforts to curb illegal watercraft rentals and enhance public safety.
What actions have been taken to address illegal watercraft rentals?
Authorities have increased enforcement measures, including impounding illegally rented boats and issuing citations to operators. In May 2025, the U.S. Coast Guard terminated the operation of an illegal charter vessel in San Diego, citing multiple violations such as operating without a valid Certificate of Inspection and employing a non-credentialed mariner.
What challenges remain in curbing illegal watercraft rentals?
Despite enforcement efforts, challenges persist due to the presence of unlicensed rental businesses lacking insurance coverage, which poses significant risks to patrons. Additionally, the complexity of monitoring and regulating watercraft rentals in a popular tourist destination like San Diego continues to be a significant hurdle.
How can the public contribute to improving watercraft safety?
Members of the public can contribute by reporting illegal watercraft rentals to local authorities, adhering to posted safety guidelines, and choosing rental businesses that comply with all safety regulations and possess appropriate insurance coverage. Public awareness and active participation are crucial in promoting a safer water environment for everyone.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Fatal Incident | A 12-year-old girl was fatally struck by a jet ski in Mission Bay, leading to legal action against federal agencies and local entities. |
| Coast Guard Enforcement | The U.S. Coast Guard terminated the operation of an illegal charter vessel in San Diego, citing multiple regulatory violations. |
| Challenges in Enforcement | Despite increased enforcement, challenges persist due to unlicensed rental businesses lacking insurance coverage and difficulties in monitoring watercraft rentals effectively. |
| Public Safety Measures | Authorities emphasize the importance of adhering to safety guidelines and choosing rental businesses that comply with regulations to ensure public safety. |
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