One Dead, Two Missing After Boat Capsizes Near Alcatraz

A fatal accident occurred in San Francisco Bay when a triple-deck pontoon boat carrying 19 people capsized near Alcatraz Island. One person died, and two others are still missing, prompting an extensive search operation.

Officials reported that 13 passengers were brought to shore safely, while three others sustained injuries and were taken to the hospital. The San Francisco Fire Chief, Dean Crispen, stated that 11 vessels are actively searching for the two missing individuals. "We are going to continue for hours to make sure that we find these two missing people, if possible," Crispen said during a press conference near the scene.

The cause of the capsizing remains unknown, and authorities have confirmed there was no fire on board, contrary to early reports. Images from the scene showed the boat partially submerged before sinking beneath the surface. Despite pleasant weather, local news video indicated that the eastbound currents in the bay were strong, potentially contributing to the incident.

Alcatraz Island, a former federal prison and now a National Historic Landmark, is known for its strong currents and cold waters, which historically made escapes difficult. The search for the missing individuals is ongoing.

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We are still conducting an active search of the area. We have 11 vessels on the water conducting that search. We are going to continue for hours to make sure that we find these two missing people, if possible.