Boat Fire Near Alcatraz Island
One person was reported missing and 17 individuals were rescued following a fire on a pontoon boat near San Francisco’s Alcatraz Island on Tuesday, according to authorities.
The US Coast Guard's search-and-rescue operations were ongoing as of Tuesday afternoon.
KTVU Fox 2 released a video showing a red boat partially submerged approximately 600 yards from the well-known tourist site. Several people were reportedly receiving medical treatment, though the severity of their injuries was not immediately clear.
Details of the Incident
The vessel involved, described by San Francisco Fire Lieutenant Mariano Elias as a “pontoon pleasure boat,” caught fire about 600 yards (548 meters) from Alcatraz Island.
Spokespersons for the San Francisco Fire Department and the Oakland Police Department did not promptly respond to inquiries regarding the cause of the fire or whether there were any fatalities.
Context About Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island attracts millions of visitors annually who come to see the former prison, known for housing some of the nation’s most notorious criminals, which is now closed to inmates.
"pontoon pleasure boat"
