Two Die in English Channel Migrant Crossing

Two men have died while attempting to cross the English Channel to Britain, while two women were hospitalised with burns, French authorities said on Monday.

The incident occurred off the coast of Berck in northern France late Sunday. The two women, aged 20 and 26, suffered extensive burns but were reported to be in stable condition.

According to French reports, a boat carrying about 120 migrants set off on Sunday night, while around 20 others were left stranded in the water after failing to board. Rescuers recovered the two men in cardiac arrest and the injured women.

French prosecutors have launched an investigation into the deaths. At least 24 migrants have now died at the Franco-British maritime border since the beginning of the year.