Boat Sinks Near Alcatraz Island in California, 1 Dead and 3 Missing

(Central News Service, San Francisco, 14th - compiled international news) A boat sinking incident occurred near Alcatraz Island—commonly known as 'The Rock'—in San Francisco Bay, California. Officials reported one fatality, three people missing, and 16 rescued.

According to reports from Reuters and the Associated Press, the incident took place in waters approximately 550 meters from Alcatraz Island. Authorities received a distress call around 3:30 p.m.

Local television footage showed the three-deck vessel almost completely submerged, with only the roof visible above water before it eventually sank completely.

Police stated that most passengers aboard were family members attending a memorial event.

Dean Crispen, Fire Chief of San Francisco, told reporters near the scene that the cause of the accident remains unknown. He added that, contrary to earlier reports, there was no fire on board.

He said the first police boat on site rescued one severely injured person, who was immediately administered CPR but could not be revived.

Crispen confirmed that 20 people were on board: 16 were rescued, one died, and three remain missing.

"We are continuing search operations. Eleven vessels are currently assisting in the search, and efforts will continue for several hours to ensure we locate the missing individuals," Crispen said.

Local news footage showed clear and pleasant weather at the scene, but strong eastward currents were visible, generating white-capped waves.

The waters surrounding Alcatraz Island have long been notorious for dangerous sea conditions. This rocky island in San Francisco Bay housed a federal prison from 1934 to 1963, and due to the swift currents and frigid waters, it was long believed to be escape-proof. Today, Alcatraz is designated a National Historic Landmark and managed by the National Park Service (NPS), attracting numerous tourists annually. (Intern translator: Chen Hsiang-Yun / Editor: Tsai Chia-Min) 1150715