Death toll rises from immigrant boat accident

Six women among the dead from failed trip across Mona Passage.

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, Monday February 6, 2012 – The death toll of migrants on board a boat which capsized over the weekend continues to rise.

The death toll now stands at 18 while there are 19 known survivors, including the boat’s captain, who were among the 70 on board the vessel that attempted to sail from the Dominican Republic to Puerto Rico.

Rescue efforts are expected to resume today after being discontinued due to darkness last night. However, rescue workers are doubtful that there will be any more survivors with the passage of time.

A US Coast Guard cutter Capella, two speedboats and two rescued craft joined six fishing boats that volunteered to rescue people who were on board the boat that sank in Samana Bay on Saturday.

A total of six women and 12 men were confirmed dead, while some of the 19 survivors are expected to be taken to the Sabana de la Mar Navy Station as suspects, and some to the hospital where they will be treated for various injuries. Click here to receive free news bulletins via email from Caribbean360. (View sample)