A weekend paddle on Tomales Bay turned tragic last Saturday when a kayak carrying two people and a dog overturned near Mendoza Beach, leaving one person dead and another suffering from hypothermia, authorities said. The distress call came in just after 6 p.m., triggering a multi-agency response. Crews pulled the dog from the water unharmed, airlifted one person to safety, and found the second victim unresponsive; that person was later pronounced dead at a hospital.
Rescue And Response
Rescue crews from the Marin and Sonoma county sheriff’s offices, Marin County Fire, the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Park Service converged on the scene, according to SFGATE. Marin County Fire said one person was found near an overturned kayak and was airlifted out, while a second victim was hoisted from the water, brought to shore for life‑saving efforts, and then transported to a hospital, where they were pronounced deceased. The dog was rescued by boat and was not injured, the agency said.
Why Tomales Bay Can Be Hazardous
Tomales Bay, a 15‑mile tidal estuary, is known for shifting currents and cold water that can quickly overwhelm paddlers. Point Reyes National Seashore urges visitors to review forecasts and local closures before launching. According to the National Park Service, some areas are seasonally closed to protect wildlife, and both weather and tide conditions can change with little warning. The U.S. Coast Guard notes that sudden immersion in cold water can trigger cold‑water shock and hypothermia and recommends wearing Coast Guard‑approved life jackets and filing a float plan before heading out.
What Officials Say And Safety Reminders
Officials have not released the victims’ names and say investigations into the circumstances of the capsize are ongoing, SFGATE reported. Local authorities are again stressing basic water safety: paddlers should wear properly fitted personal flotation devices, carry a VHF radio or other waterproof communication device, and dress for the water temperature rather than the air. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Marin County dispatch or the responding agencies.
