BajaNomad

San Felipe Tourist Panga Accident

sancho - 7-17-2011 at 03:16 PM

Don't know if this has been previously posted:
off the SF Site
Sunday July 17, 2011

Another dreadful accident occurred yesterday afternoon when a panga pulling a banana boat hit and killed a swimmer close to Club de Pesca. The boat was very close to the shore and apparently did not notice the swimmer. The Police and the naval authorities are investigating and preparing to file a charge of manslaughter against the operator who apparently fled the scene. I have to admit that I have also had some close shaves with these banana boats when I have been swimming by my house. Possibly some additional regulation is going to be needed.

Friday July 15, 2011

mcfez - 7-19-2011 at 11:27 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by sancho
Don't know if this has been previously posted:
off the SF Site
Sunday July 17, 2011

Another dreadful accident occurred yesterday afternoon when a panga pulling a banana boat hit and killed a swimmer close to Club de Pesca. The boat was very close to the shore and apparently did not notice the swimmer. The Police and the naval authorities are investigating and preparing to file a charge of manslaughter against the operator who apparently fled the scene. I have to admit that I have also had some close shaves with these banana boats when I have been swimming by my house. Possibly some additional regulation is going to be needed.

Friday July 15, 2011


No surprise to me that this happen. I have seen close calls out there too...off the malecon. Just incredible that there is no safety zone in place for that sort of entertainment. I have also been seeing more and more jet skis this past year...for they do the same thing.....full throttle .....right near the swimming public.

The operator who apparently fled the scene......sounds like he didnt go back to help the victim. May he rot in a TJ jail

sancho - 7-19-2011 at 05:21 PM

One of the things that attracts me to Mex/Baja is the
lack of Rules/Laws/Regs. I tell people I bring down that
when you cross the border, you are essentially responsible
for your own safety. Whether it be stepping over missing
water meter covers on sidewalks, which would do a number
on an ankle, to various things that may get you. Exposed
elect. etc. Plus all the US Liability Laws and compensation
do not exist. Common sense plays a major role. I've counted
about 12 or so acts/conditions on the beach in San Felipe
that would be considered a violation here in San Clemente,Ca.
Having motorized boats in and around swimmers is
a hazard, but I suppose the simple act of visiting Baja
one opens oneself up to a variety of hazards, uncontrolled
environments, and that the way a lot of us like it.
Having a second guy in the panga to serve as a lookout
may be an answer or a specific place on the beach where
motorized boats can operate may be another

[Edited on 7-20-2011 by sancho]

mcfez - 7-21-2011 at 12:37 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by sancho
One of the things that attracts me to Mex/Baja is the
lack of Rules/Laws/Regs.
[Edited on 7-20-2011 by sancho]


Same here. Reminds me of living in the old west. I just wish some would use their heads when doing stuff in Baja :(