A tragic incident occurred on July 14, 2026, in the waters near Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and leaving two more missing. The vessel involved, a 49-foot cabin cruiser named Volare, was carrying 20 friends and family members participating in a memorial service when it capsized.
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First responders were alerted to the emergency around 3:35 p.m. local time, as the boat sank between the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. The San Francisco Police Department confirmed the unfortunate confirmation of one death soon after, identified as 79-year-old Clifford Joseph Boisa. He was pulled from the water shortly after the accident.
In the aftermath, rescue operations were promptly initiated, leading to the recovery of 16 injured individuals, three of whom required hospital treatment. As part of the ongoing recovery efforts, responders searched the area extensively for any missing passengers. Their efforts were aided by the U.S. Coast Guard, which coordinated searches over an area exceeding 1,200 square miles, as announced by Captain Jared S. Toczko.
On Thursday, July 16, a breakthrough in the search came when a passing vessel notified officers of a body located west of Treasure Island. Emergency crews recovered the remains, which were subsequently identified as 58-year-old Tondra Madruga, also known as Tondra Miller. Her family expressed deep sorrow following the announcement, describing her as a beloved mother, daughter, sister, and aunt. In a statement to the press, they conveyed their heartbreak and extended their condolences to all families affected by this tragedy.
Despite extensive search operations, the Coast Guard announced the suspension of the search for the two remaining missing passengers on July 15. Captain Toczko remarked on the difficult decision, conveying heartfelt condolences to the families involved in the incident. He noted that there was still a possibility that the missing individuals could be trapped in the submerged wreckage of the vessel.
Authorities also mentioned that the search for the wreckage of the Volare was ongoing and would continue in coordination with the U.S. Coast Guard. The ship was believed to be lying at an estimated depth of 120 feet on a rocky seabed. Police indicated that search efforts were being prioritised to locate the vessel and recover any further evidence.
Ralph Boisa, brother of the deceased Clifford and a family member not aboard at the time, shared the emotional toll the incident had taken on their family. He revealed that the gathering was intended to commemorate the life of his daughter, who had passed away over a decade prior. Ralph recounted that his eldest daughter, who was also on the boat, managed to escape with her husband and three children.
However, he expressed concern for those still missing, stating, “There’s always hope, but I know it’s pretty cold, and in my mind, it’s very unlikely that they’re going to find them alive.” This sentiment reflects the despair and uncertainty faced by families supporting one another during this incredibly challenging time.
As recovery efforts continue, the impact of this tragic accident resonates deeply within the affected community, highlighting the dangers of boating and the unpredictable nature of water activities. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures while engaging in recreational activities on open waters.