SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA — The search for victims of the tragic San Francisco Bay boat sinking has brought another heartbreaking discovery as authorities recovered the body of Tondra Madruga, 58, of Sacramento County, who was among those missing after a recreational boat sank near Alcatraz Island during a family memorial outing.
The recovery has raised the confirmed death toll to two, while authorities continue searching for two additional people who remain missing following the devastating maritime accident.
According to officials, Tondra Madruga’s body was discovered shortly after 1 p.m. Thursday, July 16, 2026, in the waters west of Treasure Island. San Francisco police officers conducting sonar operations in the bay were alerted by a passing boat that reported seeing a body in the water.
The San Francisco Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed the identity of the victim and connected her to the boat incident that occurred earlier in the week.
Tondra, who was also known as Tondra Miller, was one of 20 people aboard the 40-foot pleasure craft Volare during a memorial service on Tuesday afternoon. Authorities said the vessel began sinking around 3:37 p.m. after encountering difficult conditions on the bay.
Emergency crews responded quickly, rescuing 16 passengers from the water. One person was initially pronounced dead, while several others were reported missing as rescue and recovery efforts continued.
Authorities believe the vessel may have been struck by a large wave, causing it to take on water and roll over, sending passengers into the cold waters of the bay. The boat itself has not yet been recovered and is believed to be resting approximately 130 feet below the surface.
Following the discovery of Tondra’s remains, family members expressed gratitude to the many agencies, first responders, civilian boaters, and community members who assisted with the search.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the U.S. Coast Guard, the San Francisco Fire Department, the San Francisco Police Department, all of the first responders, and the civilian boaters and community members who selflessly assisted in the search and rescue efforts,” a family member shared.
The recovery has brought a painful sense of closure to those who loved Tondra while also highlighting the ongoing grief surrounding the tragedy. Friends and family are remembering her life, her relationships, and the memories she created with those closest to her.
San Francisco police, marine units, and volunteer dive teams continue working to locate the remaining missing individuals and determine the exact circumstances surrounding the sinking. Officials say the recovery operation is complex due to underwater conditions and the depth of the wreck.
Authorities remain focused on helping the families affected by the tragedy find answers and closure.
Tondra Madruga will be remembered by her family, friends, and all who knew her as a loved one whose life was tragically taken too soon. Her memory will live on through those who cherished her. May she rest in peace.Tondra Madruga Obituary: Sacramento Woman’s Body Recovered After Tragic Alcatraz Boat Sinking in San Francisco Bay
News Report:
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA — The search for victims of the tragic San Francisco Bay boat sinking has brought another heartbreaking discovery as authorities recovered the body of Tondra Madruga, 58, of Sacramento County, who was among those missing after a recreational boat sank near Alcatraz Island during a family memorial outing.
The recovery has raised the confirmed death toll to two, while authorities continue searching for two additional people who remain missing following the devastating maritime accident.
According to officials, Tondra Madruga’s body was discovered shortly after 1 p.m. Thursday, July 16, 2026, in the waters west of Treasure Island. San Francisco police officers conducting sonar operations in the bay were alerted by a passing boat that reported seeing a body in the water.
The San Francisco Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed the identity of the victim and connected her to the boat incident that occurred earlier in the week.
Tondra, who was also known as Tondra Miller, was one of 20 people aboard the 40-foot pleasure craft Volare during a memorial service on Tuesday afternoon. Authorities said the vessel began sinking around 3:37 p.m. after encountering difficult conditions on the bay.
Emergency crews responded quickly, rescuing 16 passengers from the water. One person was initially pronounced dead, while several others were reported missing as rescue and recovery efforts continued.
Authorities believe the vessel may have been struck by a large wave, causing it to take on water and roll over, sending passengers into the cold waters of the bay. The boat itself has not yet been recovered and is believed to be resting approximately 130 feet below the surface.
Following the discovery of Tondra’s remains, family members expressed gratitude to the many agencies, first responders, civilian boaters, and community members who assisted with the search.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the U.S. Coast Guard, the San Francisco Fire Department, the San Francisco Police Department, all of the first responders, and the civilian boaters and community members who selflessly assisted in the search and rescue efforts,” a family member shared.
The recovery has brought a painful sense of closure to those who loved Tondra while also highlighting the ongoing grief surrounding the tragedy. Friends and family are remembering her life, her relationships, and the memories she created with those closest to her.
San Francisco police, marine units, and volunteer dive teams continue working to locate the remaining missing individuals and determine the exact circumstances surrounding the sinking. Officials say the recovery operation is complex due to underwater conditions and the depth of the wreck.
Authorities remain focused on helping the families affected by the tragedy find answers and closure.
Tondra Madruga will be remembered by her family, friends, and all who knew her as a loved one whose life was tragically taken too soon. Her memory will live on through those who cherished her. May she rest in peace.
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