Man Accused of Killing Chicago Boat Captain Allegedly Hid Key Details in 911 Call

Prosecutors say Alexis Trader called 911 to report the incident but did not reveal how the victim ended up in the water.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 7:55pm

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Alexis Trader has been accused of killing Nabil 'Captain Bill' Adzal, a 63-year-old charter boat captain, at DuSable Harbor in Chicago last summer. Prosecutors say Trader called 911 to report that someone had fallen into the water, but did not reveal that he had allegedly punched Adzal, causing him to fall into the harbor and drown.

Why it matters

This case highlights issues around bail reform and public safety, as Trader was out on pretrial release for a previous DUI charge and had other pending criminal cases when the alleged murder occurred. It also raises questions about security and access at the city's boat harbors.

The details

According to prosecutors, Trader and three companions arrived at the locked entrance to Dock C around 2:43 a.m. on August 30. Trader allegedly scaled the metal grates, unlocked the gate from the inside, and let his companions enter. Two women in the group then boarded Adzal's yacht and took Snapchat photos, prompting Adzal to escort them off the boat. As Adzal opened the gate to leave, Trader allegedly punched him, causing Adzal's head to strike a metal grate and sending him into the water, where he drowned. Trader then called 911 to report the incident but did not reveal his alleged role in Adzal's death.

  • The incident occurred in the early morning hours of August 30, 2026.
  • Trader called 911 around 2:43 a.m. on August 30, 2026 to report the incident.
  • Chicago Fire Department divers recovered Adzal's body about 10 minutes after police arrived on the scene.

The players

Nabil 'Captain Bill' Adzal

A 63-year-old charter boat captain who was killed in the incident.

Alexis Trader

The man accused of killing Adzal by allegedly punching him and causing him to fall into the water at DuSable Harbor.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in Chicago.”

— Robert Jenkins, Chicago resident (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Alexis Trader out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on Chicago's streets, and whether any special laws are needed to govern access and security at the city's boat harbors.