One person was killed, two remain missing, and sixteen others were rescued after a pontoon pleasure boat sank near San Francisco’s Alcatraz Island on Tuesday, July 15, 2026, city authorities and Mayor Daniel Lurie reported.

The incident occurred approximately 600 yards from the island, a popular tourist destination known for its historic prison. KTVU Fox 2 captured video footage showing a red boat partially submerged in the water.

The US Coast Guard confirmed that search-and-rescue operations were ongoing Tuesday afternoon. Several individuals were receiving medical attention, though the extent of their injuries has not been disclosed.

Initial reports suggested a fire had broken out on board the vessel. However, San Francisco Fire Chief Dean Crispen stated at a press conference that there was no indication of a blaze.

The vessel involved was described by San Francisco Fire Lieutenant Mariano Elias as a "pontoon pleasure boat." Live video from the scene showed survivors wrapped in blankets near an ambulance.

Spokespeople for the San Francisco Fire Department and Oakland Police Department did not immediately provide information regarding the cause of the incident.

Alcatraz Island attracts millions of visitors annually, drawn to its history as a former federal prison housing some of the nation’s most notorious criminals.

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