Following witness interviews and evidence collection, the Sausalito Police Department has developed additional information regarding the fatal collision that occurred on Monday, March 16.

At approximately 2:38 p.m., emergency crews responded to a water rescue incident near Sausalito Yacht Harbor in the 500 block of Humboldt Avenue after receiving reports that a vehicle had entered the water with occupants inside.

 Upon arrival, responders located a vehicle submerged approximately 10 feet underwater off the dock. A passenger, who had exited the vehicle prior to it entering the water, was already in the water attempting to assist the driver. The passenger informed responders that the driver remained inside the vehicle.

Southern Marin Fire Protection District personnel immediately initiated dive operations and, with the assistance of a local private diver, recovered the driver from the submerged vehicle. The driver was brought to the dock, where lifesaving measures were initiated, and was subsequently transported to a local hospital, where the individual was pronounced deceased. The passenger was evaluated at the scene and did not require medical transport.

The vehicle was confirmed clear of occupants following the rescue. One firefighter sustained minor injuries during the response and was transported for evaluation.

The investigation found that the vehicle had been stopped facing the water near D Dock, where the driver was preparing to load items and passengers. For reasons still under investigation, the vehicle suddenly accelerated, drove over an approximately 12-inch raised curb and nearby barriers, and entered the water. The passenger exited the vehicle before it left the sidewalk, while the driver remained inside and was unable to escape before the vehicle became submerged. The vehicle ultimately came to rest upside down in the water, which complicated rescue and extrication efforts.

Multiple fire department units, marine resources, and partner agencies responded to the incident. The U.S. Coast Guard was notified, and arrangements were made for vehicle recovery and environmental notification due to the vehicle being submerged in the waterway.

The identity of the decedent has been released by the Marin County Coroner’s Office as Brian Mullins of Sausalito.