Search Continues for Missing After Boat Capsizes Near Alcatraz

Rescue teams in San Francisco are searching for three missing individuals after a boat involved in a memorial service capsized in the cold, fast-moving waters near Alcatraz Island. Authorities reported that one person was pulled from the water but later died, and 16 others were rescued after the incident on Tuesday afternoon. Witnesses described the conditions as ‘choppy seas.’ San Francisco Fire Chief Dean Crispen stated that the boat began taking on water before overturning.

According to Crispen, when rescuers arrived, the boat’s engine was still running and leaking fuel. Footage from Tuesday showed rescue vessels surrounding the partially submerged boat, with debris floating nearby. A dog on board also died. Fire department spokesperson Lt. Mariano Elias described the vessel, named Volare, as a 50-foot recreational boat registered in Stockton, California. Rescue teams used thermal imaging, tide predictions, and models to aid their search efforts.

As of Tuesday night, authorities searched the open sea west of the Golden Gate Bridge. Initial reports mentioned smoke from the boat, which first responders later identified as steam. The boat reportedly set out from the St. Francis Yacht Club, passed under the Golden Gate Bridge twice, and visited Angel Island, a state park, before apparently heading back. A club representative had no information when contacted Tuesday.

Alcatraz Island, once a federal prison known for its inescapable icy waters and strong currents, is about one mile from San Francisco and is now a popular tourist destination. Elias indicated that the boat was approximately 600 yards from Alcatraz when the emergency call came in shortly after 3:30 p.m.

The article also notes contributions from correspondents Kathy McCormack, Ed White, Sophie Austin, Claire Rush, Hallie Golden, and Noah Berger.