Crime & Safety

Update: Larkspur Man Dies in San Quentin Boating Accident

A man who was rescued after his boat capsized near the San Quentin shoreline died in Marin General Hospital this morning.

A man who passed away after being rescued from the shoreline near San Quentin State Prison early this morning was identified as James Laurel, a 44-year-old resident of Larkspur, according to the Marin County Coroner.

Laurel  and a woman, who was also rescued was treated at the hospital and released, left a dock on the Corte Madera Creek in the 14-foot motorboat around 10 p.m. Tuesday, Lt. Barry Heying said.

The boat developed engine trouble in the Bay, Heying said. Laurel, who was not wearing a life vest, fell overboard while trying to restart the engine, Heying said.

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When he tried to get back in the vessel, it capsized, Heying said.

Laurel and the woman, who was wearing a life vest, were in the water for an unknown amount of time before they made it to the shore near the prison.

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Prison guards in the tower saw the couple beckoning for help on the beach below the 6-foot retaining wall surrounding the prison at about 1 a.m., San Quentin State Prison Lt. E. Melton said.

The boaters were then hoisted over the wall, Melton said. The San Rafael Fire Department also responded to the incident, according to Fire Chief Chris Gray.

Laurel was unconscious and was being treated by paramedics when sheriff's deputies arrived, Heying said. He was pronounced dead at Marin General Hospital.

Deputies believe alcohol was a factor in the incident, and his death is being investigated by the county coroner's office, Heying said.

Bay City News Service


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