Two Women Die in Channel Crossing Attempt as Boat Drifts Off French Coast

PARIS: Two young women believed to be from Sudan died on Sunday while attempting to cross the English Channel to United Kingdom from northern France, officials said.

The victims, both around 20 years old, were among 82 people aboard a small boat that set off overnight but encountered mechanical failure at sea.

According to regional official Christophe Marx, the vessel’s engine failed shortly after departure, leaving it adrift in dangerous conditions.

Rescue teams managed to bring 17 people safely to the port of Boulogne-sur-Mer, while the remaining 65 stayed aboard as the boat eventually ran aground near Neufchâtel-Hardelot.

“The victims were found dead inside the boat,” Marx said.

Emergency services transported 16 injured individuals to hospital, including three in serious condition, some suffering from burns. Authorities said those rescued would be interviewed by border police as part of an investigation into the crossing and those responsible for organising it.

This marks the third such deadly incident in just over a month along the French-British migration Channel . Previous tragedies in early April claimed multiple lives off the northern French coast.

According to official figures compiled by AFP, at least 29 migrants lost their lives in 2025 attempting the perilous sea journey.

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The incident comes despite a recent three-year security agreement between France and the United Kingdom aimed at curbing illegal crossings. The deal includes increased coastal patrols by French forces and greater financial support from Britain.

While officials say the number of arrivals in the UK has declined compared to last year, the continued loss of life underscores the ongoing dangers faced by migrants seeking to make the journey.