A three-deck pontoon vessel sank off the coast of Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay, United States, on Tuesday, July 15th, 2026. US officials confirmed on Wednesday, July 16th, that one person died and three others who were missing are presumed dead following the incident. A dog also died in the capsizing, while 16 people were rescued by authorities.

Alcatraz Island, located about 1 mile (1.6 km) off the shore in the bay, is known for its former federal prison, now a tourist destination. The prison was historically considered inescapable due to the strong ocean currents and cold Pacific waters surrounding the island.

San Francisco fire chief Dean Crispen stated that responders were dispatched around 3:35 p.m. local time (1035 GMT) on Tuesday after reports of "a boat on fire, 600 yards of Alcatraz" Island. However, Crispen later clarified that there is no evidence a fire actually occurred on the boat.

Rescuers found the pontoon vessel capsized and nearly submerged, with its motor still running and leaking fuel. The Coast Guard, assisted by local police and fire teams, conducted an extensive search and rescue operation involving planes, boats, and helicopters throughout the night. The search was called off around sunset on Wednesday evening after hopes of finding the missing alive diminished.

Sources