Tragedy In Canary Islands As Migrant Boat Capsizes, Killing Seven

 

Seven people—four women and three young girls—lost their lives on Wednesday when a small boat carrying migrants capsized while approaching the port of El Hierro, one of Spain’s Canary Islands.

Spain’s maritime rescue service located the vessel roughly six miles (9.6 kilometers) from shore. According to officials, the tragedy unfolded as rescuers began removing children from the overcrowded boat. The shifting weight of the passengers caused it to overturn, plunging many into the water.

Among the deceased were a teenage girl and two younger girls, one of whom was recovered by a rescue diver. Two more children—a girl and a boy—were airlifted to a local hospital in serious condition after nearly drowning.

Reports indicate the vessel was packed with over 100 people. Rescue workers from Spain’s emergency services and the Red Cross pulled survivors from the sea, racing against time in the chaotic aftermath.

The Canary Islands, situated off the northwest coast of Africa, remain a primary gateway for migrants attempting to reach European soil. Many undertake the perilous Atlantic crossing in unseaworthy dinghies, often fleeing conflict, poverty, or political instability. Over the years, thousands have died attempting the journey.

In 2023, nearly 47,000 migrants made it to the Canary Islands—breaking previous records for the second year in a row. Most were from Mali, Senegal, and Morocco, with many departing from Mauritania’s coast. A significant portion of the arrivals included unaccompanied minors.

By mid-May this year, approximately 10,800 migrants had arrived via the Atlantic route—a 34% decrease compared to the same period in 2024. Despite the drop, Wednesday’s tragic incident underscores the deadly risks still faced by those making the crossing.