The San Francisco Bay community is mourning after authorities identified Tondra Miller, 58, of Folsom, California, as the second person who died following the tragic capsizing of a 49-foot cruiser near Alcatraz Island earlier this week.
The vessel, Volare, was carrying 20 passengers on Tuesday afternoon when it suddenly overturned while the group was returning from a memorial trip to scatter the ashes of Maria Boisa, a nurse who died in 2015. The gathering was intended to honor Maria’s memory and provide closure for her family after years of grief.
Second Victim Identified
Authorities confirmed that Tondra Miller was among those who lost their lives in the devastating incident. Her death follows the confirmation of Clifford Joseph Boisa, 79, as the first fatality after he was recovered from the water.
Emergency crews rescued 16 people from the vessel after it sank, while two additional passengers remain missing.
Family members identified the missing individuals as Carol Boisa and Jackie Boisa, who are believed to still be inside the sunken vessel.
Search Efforts Continue
The 49-foot cabin cruiser remains submerged in approximately 130 feet of water, creating difficult conditions for recovery teams.
The U.S. Coast Guard suspended its active search operation after extensive efforts were made to locate those still missing. However, the San Francisco Police Department has continued localized search efforts, including the use of sonar technology to scan the area and gather additional information.
Authorities are working carefully due to the depth of the wreck and the challenging underwater conditions surrounding the vessel.
Investigation Underway
Investigators continue examining what caused the sudden instability that led to the boat taking on water and rolling over.
Officials are reviewing available evidence, including witness accounts, weather conditions, vessel conditions, and other factors that may have contributed to the tragedy.
The incident has left family members and friends grieving multiple losses from what was supposed to be a meaningful day of remembrance.
A Day of Remembrance Turns Into Tragedy
The group had gathered to honor Maria Vi Boisa, whose ashes were being scattered in waters she loved because of her lifelong connection to surfing and the ocean.
Instead, the memorial journey became a heartbreaking disaster that claimed lives and left a family facing another unimaginable loss.
As the investigation continues, the San Francisco Bay community continues to offer support and condolences to the families affected by the tragedy.
The thoughts and prayers of the community remain with the families of Tondra Miller, Clifford Joseph Boisa, Carol Boisa, Jackie Boisa, and everyone impacted by this devastating loss.