Police have launched an investigation into the death of a 57-year-old man who fell overboard in San Diego Bay Saturday.
Harbor Police said they received a call about a man overboard in the bay around 4:15 p.m.
Coronado resident Ronald Wood had been sailing his private boat with two friends when he fell into the water close to Naval Base San Diego near 32nd Street, according to officials from the Port of San Diego.
When Harbor Police arrived at the vessel, it was already too late to save the victim.
Police said Wood’s body was recovered, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Michelle Ganon with the Port of San Diego said the passengers aboard the boat tried to help their friend, but did not know anything about sailing. They signaled other vessels in the area for help.
“They got the attention of another boat that was nearby. That boat came over to assist, pulled down the sail, saw the body in the water face down. They contacted Harbor Police who took over at that point,” explained Ganon.
The 36-foot private boat named “La Paloma” was towed back to a customs inspection dock on Shelter Island.
Police said both companions were questioned.
Ganon said alcohol may have played a factor in the incident.
“One is allowed to consume alcohol on the boat, including the person who is operating the boat, but you're not allowed to operate the boat while you're intoxicated,” said Ganon. “At this point, it just seems to be a very unfortunate accident.”
The medical examiner will determine whether Wood had alcohol in his system.
Authorities said they do not suspect any foul play.
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