One dead, two missing after pleasure boat sinks near Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay

Incident

A pontoon pleasure boat carrying 19 people caught fire and sank approximately 550 to 600 yards from Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay on Tuesday afternoon. The vessel, described as a "pontoon pleasure boat" by San Francisco fire lieutenant Mariano Elias, became fully submerged soon after the crew and passengers noticed the flames. Local television footage showed the boat's cabin top barely above the water before it slipped beneath the surface. Authorities first received a distress call just after 3:30 p.m. local time reporting a boat fire. By the time rescuers arrived, the boat had capsized and there was no evidence of continued fire, though a fuel leak was visible.

We received a report of a boat on fire, about 550 meters from Alcatraz.

Rescue efforts

Multiple agencies joined the response, including the U.S. Coast Guard, San Francisco Fire Department, Oakland police, and at least 11 vessels. Scuba divers entered the cold, swirling waters to search for missing passengers. Of the 19 aboard, 17 were pulled from the water and brought to Gashouse Cove Marina. Three survivors were hospitalized with impact injuries. One person received cardiopulmonary resuscitation but died after being retrieved. Two others remained unaccounted for, though initial reports had indicated one missing person. A dog that was on board also did not survive.

We are currently in a full rescue operation. Two people remain missing and we found a dead dog.

Eyewitness account

A nearby tourist boat captain, Aaron Anfinson, described the scene. Another boater flagged him down, signaling a vessel in flames. When Anfinson approached, the fire had extinguished but the boat was sinking fast. Some passengers were already in the water while others clung to the vessel.

It was scary. I would not want to see anyone in this situation.

Anfinson and his crew threw life jackets and ring buoys toward the victims before official rescue teams reached the location.

Alcatraz's dangerous waters

The sinking occurred roughly 550 meters from Alcatraz Island, a former prison turned major tourist attraction. The area is known for strong currents, frigid water temperatures, and sudden gusts, making navigation hazardous and rescue operations difficult. The boat's motor was reportedly still running when rescuers arrived, and they observed fuel leaking into the bay.

Investigation

The cause of the fire remains unknown. San Francisco fire officials have not determined whether the boat was heading to or returning from Alcatraz, or simply cruising in the bay. An investigation has been opened, and authorities continue searching for the two missing individuals. The U.S. Coast Guard stated that updates would follow as more information became available.