RismadarVoice Reporters
October 5, 2026
Two migrants have died while attempting to cross the English Channel from France to Britain, while two women were rescued with serious burns, French authorities have said.
The incident occurred off the northern French coastal town of Berck late on Sunday during an attempted Channel crossing.
Two Somali women, aged 20 and 26, were rescued and taken to hospital after suffering burns across significant parts of their bodies. Authorities said their injuries were not considered life-threatening.
Reports indicated that the burns may have resulted from a reaction involving petrol and seawater, although the circumstances surrounding the injuries remain under investigation.
A boat carrying about 120 migrants reportedly departed from the area on Sunday night, while around 20 others were left in the water after they were unable to board.
Emergency teams responding to the incident recovered two men who were in cardiac arrest, as well as the two injured women. The men later died.
French prosecutors have opened an investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The incident came days after another attempted Channel crossing reportedly left three people dead, including a 10-year-old child.
At least 24 migrants have been reported dead along the maritime border between France and Britain since the beginning of 2026.
The English Channel remains one of the busiest shipping routes in the world, with migrants and asylum seekers continuing to attempt the journey to Britain in small and often overcrowded boats.
French and British authorities have repeatedly sought to disrupt smuggling networks organising the crossings, but attempted journeys have continued despite the risks.
