In light of recent altercations in the water at La Jolla’s Windansea Beach, the San Diego Police Department is stepping up patrols in the area, including having officers work overtime.
On the afternoon of August 13, a male surfer and several others got into an altercation in the water, “throwing punches” and the surfer was held in the water for “about 30 seconds by his estimate,” SDPD officer Brian said. To tell. Abella overseeing the investigation in the northern division of the department, which includes La Jolla. Surfer did not give reasons for his allegations in a statement to police.
“It was a very dangerous situation,” Abella said. “If someone was taken into the water and thought they were going to die, that would get our attention.”
The investigation is ongoing, Avera said.
Windansy Island has had problems “almost a generational problem” for years. But this was the first major altercation reported to police, he said.
“Generally, we’ve been fighting in the area…it’s more territorial. People feel like it’s their territory to surf,” says Avera. “So we are vigilant and allocating resources throughout La Jolla to ensure safety. We are dedicating more people to the area seven days a week, including overtime.”
“I want people to know it’s safe to go to the beach,” he added. “Our officers … have a difficult job and are doing the best they can with the resources we have.”
Windancy Surf Club president Bill Fitzmaurice said disregard for surfing etiquette could lead to disagreements, but he and the club “do not tolerate violence.”
Windancy is not a beginner’s wave, nor is it a beginner’s place. … breaks harder and faster than places like La Jolla Shores. ”
The problem with newbies riding windancy waves is that they can endanger themselves or someone else. “It’s possible,” said Fitzmaurice. “Plus, these newbies don’t always know when they’re cutting someone off. Let’s say you don’t wait your turn when a wave comes in. It will annoy you. prize.”
He said he was not aware of the Aug. 13 altercation and could not comment. But he said disputes and fights over territory “are happening on every beach, not just Windansea.”
“The reason it happens is usually lack of etiquette and bad attitude,” Fitzmaurice said. Yes, it belongs to no one, but some of us surf there every day.
“If you’re going to paddle out, be respectful and patient. People will look at you and remember you. If you get along with the locals, you’ll have a good time.”
Fitzmaurice, who has been surfing in the area since 1971, said: You had to be invited to surf there. But that attitude has been toned down, he said.
Violence, especially in the water, is contrary to the Windansea Surf Club’s mission statement, he said. Through philanthropy and competition, we promote a positive image for local and global surfers and support young people for a brighter future. ”
The club works on beach cleanups, surf trips for people with disabilities, and a Menehune surf contest for children.
“By talking to lifeguards and observing things for a while, you can learn etiquette to be polite, patient, and respectful,” said Fitzmaurice.
