San Francisco, CA – On the afternoon of Tuesday, July 14, 2026, a boat carrying 20 people capsized near Alcatraz Island, resulting in one death, three people missing, and multiple injuries, according to KRON.
The San Francisco Fire Department reports that the incident took place around 3:30 PM approximately 600 yards from Alcatraz Island.
Authorities said the vessel, a 50-foot pontoon-style cabin cruiser called the Velari, based out of Stockton and departing from the St. Francis Yacht Club, was struck by a wave amid rough seas and capsized while most of those on board, family members, were participating in a memorial service.
The San Francisco Police Department’s Marine Unit was first to arrive at the scene. Of the 20 people on board, 13 were uninjured and taken to a family reunification center, three sustained injuries and were transported to a hospital, and one person died. A dog on board the vessel was also declared dead. Three people remained missing as of Tuesday evening.
The U.S. Coast Guard, Oakland Police Department, San Francisco Police Department, and private vessels participated in an active search-and-rescue operation that continued through the night, with the American Red Cross also responding to assist affected families. Those rescued were taken to Gashouse Cove Marina. San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie confirmed the ongoing search and extended condolences to the family of the deceased.
Officials said there were no reports of a fire on board, resolving earlier conflicting reports about the nature of the incident. Anyone believing they have a family member who was on the boat is asked to contact the American Red Cross. The investigation remains ongoing.
San Francisco Boating Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims
California law requires vessel operators to exercise reasonable care for the safety of passengers, including accounting for weather and sea conditions before and during a voyage. When a vessel capsizes and results in death or injury to passengers, investigators with California law enforcement and federal maritime authorities examine the vessel’s condition, the operator’s decisions, and the weather conditions at the time to determine whether negligence contributed to the incident.
The family of the deceased passenger may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim, while those injured or missing passengers’ families may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim. These claims can provide compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the accident.
For more information on wrongful death claims, visit MaisonLaw.com.
