News Summary
In a dramatic rescue, first responders in San Diego saved a man who was found unresponsive in the cold waters of the Pacific Ocean near Mission Bay. The fisherman who spotted him quickly called for help, leading to a coordinated effort involving the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, Border Patrol, Lifeguards, and the Coast Guard. The man was treated for hypothermia and transported to a local hospital for further care, highlighting the need for vigilance in maritime safety.
San Diego: First Responders Rescue Hypothermic Man from Pacific Ocean
A man was rescued from the Pacific Ocean on Thursday morning in San Diego after being found unresponsive in the water near Mission Bay. The discovery was made around 10 a.m. by a fisherman who alerted authorities. The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department confirmed their involvement in the emergency response.
Upon witnessing the man in distress, the fisherman quickly flagged down a nearby Border Patrol boat for assistance. The situation prompted a multi-agency response, including the San Diego Lifeguards and the Coast Guard, all of whom worked together in a coordinated rescue effort.
Border Patrol agents successfully pulled the hypothermic man from the cold waters and promptly wrapped him in mylar blankets to provide immediate warmth. His condition, reflective of serious exposure to the cold ocean, warranted immediate medical attention.
Following rescue from the water, the man was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation and treatment due to his hypothermia. As of Thursday evening, details concerning the man’s identity and current condition have not been disclosed.
Rescue Operations Involving Multiple Agencies
Rescue operations like this illustrate the collaborative efforts of multiple agencies when responding to emergencies at sea. In this case, the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, Border Patrol, Lifeguards, and the Coast Guard all played critical roles in ensuring the man received timely help.
The quick action of the fisherman was vital in alerting authorities, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and readiness among members of the public who may find themselves in situations requiring urgent decisions.
Understanding Hypothermia
Hypothermia is a medical emergency that occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, leading to a dangerous drop in core body temperature. Prolonged exposure to cold water, such as ocean temperatures, can quickly escalate this condition. Individuals suffering from hypothermia need immediate medical care to prevent severe complications or even death.
In conditions like those experienced on Thursday, rescuers must act swiftly to avoid further complications from the elements, particularly in aquatic environments that can be unforgiving and unpredictable. The effectiveness of thermal coverings, such as mylar blankets, in an emergency situation can often make a significant difference in outcomes for individuals suffering from hypothermia, providing crucial heat retention until further medical assistance can be rendered.
Background Context
San Diego’s coastal region is both a scenic attraction and a location for various maritime activities, including fishing, surfing, and boating. While these activities draw locals and tourists alike, they also pose dangers, particularly when individuals venture too far from shore or into treacherous waters.
The collaboration of various emergency services is not uncommon in San Diego, a city known for its proximity to the ocean and diverse recreational opportunities. The prompt response of local agencies in this incident underscores the existing protocols for maritime emergencies and the critical nature of community engagement in ensuring safety along the coastline.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
San Diego Issues Health Alert Over Carfentanil Threat
Residents of San Diego Sue City Over Trash Fee
San Diego Faces Increasing Wildfire Risks Amid Drought
Tragic Private Jet Crash in San Diego Neighborhood
Shooting Incident at Otay Mesa Port of Entry
Cessna Crash in San Diego Claims Six Lives
Homeowners Challenge New Trash Fee Implementation in San Diego
Teen Driver Causes Serious Injury to 13-Year-Old Girl in San Diego
Weekend Fires in San Diego Displace Families and Cause Damage
Rattlesnake Season Arrives in San Diego County
Additional Resources
- Fox 5 San Diego
- Wikipedia: Hypothermia
- KENS 5
- Google Search: Hypothermia medical emergency
- Newsweek
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hypothermia
- San Diego Union-Tribune
- Google News: San Diego rescue operations

Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF 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.