Wreckage of sunken Volare found on rocky seabed at 120 feet
San Francisco police said Friday that the department’s marine unit discovered the wreckage of the Volare in the vicinity of where it sank, resting on the rocky seabed about 120 feet below the surface. Investigators are using a remotely operated vehicle to assess the condition of the vessel and determine whether it can be safely recovered.
The body of Tondra Madruga, also known as Tondra Miller, was recovered Thursday near Treasure Island after a boater reported seeing a body in the water, police said. The medical examiner identified her Friday.
“Our family is heartbroken by the loss of our beloved mother, daughter, sister, and aunt, Tondra Madruga,” family member Quin Madruga wrote on Facebook. “Our hearts remain with every family impacted, and we sincerely appreciate your kindness and understanding.”
The Volare was carrying 20 people — mostly family members — when a wave struck the boat Wednesday afternoon, causing it to capsize and sink. The group was on the water to scatter the ashes of a loved one, according to Ralph Boisa, who said his extended family and close friends were aboard to celebrate the life of his daughter, who died more than a decade ago. Madruga was a friend.
One man, Clifford Boisa, died after being pulled from the cold water. Sixteen others were rescued by good Samaritans and first responders. The Coast Guard searched more than 800 square miles — roughly half the size of Rhode Island — before suspending efforts Wednesday evening.
Ralph Boisa said the two people still missing are his sister, Carol, and Clifford Boisa’s wife, Jackie.
The San Francisco Bay is known for its strong currents, and within hours of the sinking, rescuers were also searching the open ocean beyond the Golden Gate Bridge. Police continue to search the bay and have not ruled out further recovery operations.