Search Efforts Halted for Three Missing After Boat Capsizes in San Francisco Bay

Search operations by the U.S. Coast Guard for three missing individuals have been suspended following a tragic boating accident in San Francisco Bay. The incident occurred on Tuesday when a cabin cruiser, carrying 20 family members and friends, capsized while they were scattering the ashes of a loved one.

Captain Jared S. Toczko of the U.S. Coast Guard expressed condolences to the families affected, noting that suspending a search is one of the most difficult decisions they face. The boat, named Volare, was reportedly struck by a wave, causing it to take on water and ultimately sink.

Among the missing are Carol, Jackie, and a friend of the deceased, all connected to Ralph Boisa, who was unable to attend the memorial. His brother Clifford, who was rescued from the water, later died, along with Clifford's dog. Sixteen other passengers were successfully rescued.

Coast Guard crews have scoured over 814 square miles of the bay but concluded the search “pending further developments.” While Toczko mentioned the possibility of the missing individuals still being alive, he acknowledged the risk that some may have been trapped inside the vessel.

Witnesses described the conditions as rough, with swells reaching up to five feet. However, there was no small craft advisory issued by the National Weather Service at the time. The boat had departed from a San Francisco marina and was on its way back after visiting Angel Island State Park when it capsized near the historic Alcatraz Island.

Local sailor Kirk Miller pointed out that improper weight distribution among passengers could have contributed to the boat's instability. Eyewitnesses reported a chaotic scene, with some passengers seen attempting to escape through windows as the boat sank.

First responders were able to rescue several individuals from the water, including the captain. The Coast Guard is currently working to locate the sunken vessel to determine if it can be salvaged.

As the families mourn their losses, Ralph Boisa reflected on the tragedies his family has faced over the years, highlighting the emotional toll of this latest incident.

Reported by HarborBeat based on WMAR-2 News (source).