An uncle and his 12-year-old nephew have gone missing after embarking on a fishing excursion off the coast of Baja California, as Tropical Storm Rachel approached the region. The family of 40-year-old Oscar Ulloa, who resides in San Diego, reported that the duo ventured out to sea on 10 October, intending for their outing to last just a few hours. However, they have not been heard from since their departure.
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Reports indicate that Hurricane Rachel struck the area on the same weekend, causing significant rainfall across San Diego county. Witnesses noted that parts of the region received over three inches of rain as the storm moved inland. The storm began to affect the coastline shortly after Ulloa and his nephew set out, raising concerns about their safety.
Family members expressed their deep worry as the hours turned into days without communication from the pair. Alister Barradell, Ulloa’s cousin, revealed that the Mexican Coast Guard has initiated efforts to locate the uncle and nephew. Air searches are underway, combined with additional resources provided by a private aircraft hired by the family in the hopes of finding them.
In a press conference, Ignacio Lozoya, the Baja California Civil Protection Coordinator, confirmed that search operations for Ulloa and his nephew are actively underway. He added that the authorities are making every possible effort to locate the missing individuals, while family members remain hopeful for their safe return.
With the situation growing increasingly tense, Barradell has appealed to the local community, urging anyone in the northern Sea of Cortez area to be vigilant. “We are asking everyone to keep an eye out for the uncle and nephew and to let others know that there is a boat missing in that area,” he stated. His call for assistance reflects the family’s desperation as they cling to the hope that the two have somehow survived the storm’s fury.
As they wait for news, the family has contemplated potential scenarios that could explain the absence of their loved ones. Barradell mentioned that the weather turned troublesome during the outing, leaving them uncertain as to whether Ulloa’s boat faced engine troubles or if something more dire has occurred. They remain united in their prayers for their safe return.
Hurricane Rachel, which had already transitioned into a post-tropical cyclone by the time it made landfall on 11 October, affected vast areas of the southwest United States, leaving behind a trail of rain. It struck Baja California before advancing across the country, contributing to concerns over the wellbeing of those at sea during its onset.
As the search becomes increasingly urgent, the Ulloa family continues to rally their efforts. Friends and community members have joined in solidarity, sharing news and updates while hoping for a miraculous outcome. As efforts persist in the days ahead, many are united in their thoughts and prayers for Oscar Ulloa and his young nephew.