Another Panga Found on Tajiguas Beach

Yet another abandoned panga boat has been found in the Refugio State Beach area — the third in recent months — early Monday morning. According to Sheriff’s spokesperson Kelly Hoover, a patrol deputy spotted the single-engine, 25-foot vessel on the shoreline of Tajiguas Beach at 6:54 a.m.

“Investigators found items of potential evidence inside and strewn about the surrounding beach,” said Hoover, “including numerous fuel containers, clothing, and other miscellaneous trash type items.” But she noted that based on the evidence found at the scene, it was difficult to determine if the boat was used to smuggle drugs or illegal immigrants.

Crews with California State Parks, Homeland Security Investigations, and the U.S. Coast Guard all responded to the scene. Officials removed the panga and debris and continue to investigate the incident.