Bodega Bay, California — A 13-year-old boy emerged as the sole survivor of a devastating boat accident off Bodega Bay that claimed the lives of his father and four others. The incident occurred on November 2, when a family outing for the start of crab season turned tragic after rough waters overturned their boat.
Juladi “Jude” Khammoungkhoune, out crabbing with family, was saved by his father, Prasong, who urged him to take cover inside a cooler. Prasong held onto the cooler as long as he could before letting go, allowing Jude to drift to safety. After being tossed ashore, Jude spent the night on the beach, where first responders found him the following day.
The group had set off at 3 p.m., planning to return by evening. After losing contact, a relative alerted the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office, which launched an extensive search in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard. Despite covering over 2,100 square miles, only Jude’s 17-year-old cousin’s body was recovered.
Jude, now back home in San Jose, is receiving support from his family. Loved ones and community members have contributed to a GoFundMe in Prasong’s memory, supporting Jude’s mother and two younger siblings. We extend our deepest condolences to Jude’s family and wish them strength and comfort as they navigate this heartbreaking loss after the boat accident off Bodega Bay.
