Watch CBS News

Alameda Gets New Rescue Boat Following Controversial Response To Drowning

ALAMEDA (CBS/AP) - Alameda officials have bought a second rescue boat, as they try to improve the island city's water rescue capabilities following the drowning of a suicidal man while authorities watched from the shore.

Interim Fire Chief Mike D'Orazi said his department bought the second boat—a 15-foot inflatable craft—on Monday for about $12,000.

The city has reinstated its water rescue program since 52-year-old Raymond Zack's death on Memorial Day.

D'Orazi has said firefighters were unable to help Zack when he waded into the waters off Crown Beach because the city's water rescue program had been defunded. Zack stood neck-deep in the frigid waters for about a half hour before his body was recovered by a bystander.

The department purchased the first boat in June. It has also trained about 60 firefighters in either boat operation or rescue swimming.

(Copyright 2011 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.