A U. S. Coast Guard member died early this morning from injuries sustained during law enforcement operations near Santa Cruz Island, California. 34-year-old Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer Terrell Horne died from traumatic head injuries when the watercraft he was in was rammed by a suspected drug smuggling vessel.

The incident happened shortly after the Coast Guard Cutter Halibut deployed its small boat to investigate a Mexican-style Panga operating without lights near Santa Cruz Island in California.

When the small craft approached the darkened vessel, the small Coast Guard vessel energized its blue law enforcement lights. As the vessel approached the panga, the panga bore down on the small craft at high speed, striking it and catapulting two men from the Coast Guard craft.

Both men were immediately recovered by another small Coast Guard boat. First aid was administered as the Halibut quickly made way to Port Hueneme, California where emergency medical services met the vessel. Chief Petty Officer Horne was pronounced dead there at the pier. The other Coast Guard crewman sustained minor injuries.

The suspect vessel that sped away after the intentional collision was later apprehended by other Coast Guard assets. Two men were detained from the vessel.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our shipmate. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends, and his shipmates aboard Coast Guard Cutter Halibut,” said Coast Guard Commandant, Admiral Robert J. Papp. “We are focused on supporting them during this very difficult time. Our fallen shipmate stood the watch on the front lines protecting our nation and we are all indebted to him for his service and sacrifice. Finally, I commend the responding Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection units whose quick actions led to the successful interdiction and apprehension of those believed to be involved.”

The persons on the suspect vessel have been detained, their names are not available at this time.