PARIS — On Friday, maritime officials in France reported a tragic incident where a baby lost their life, and 65 individuals were rescued after a migrant vessel capsized while trying to navigate the English Channel on its way to Britain.

Late Thursday, French rescue teams spotted the distressed, overloaded boat and quickly realized that numerous people had entered the icy waters. Using semi-rigid inflatable boats, rescue personnel diligently pulled 65 individuals from the sea, as stated in an official report by the French maritime authorities.

During the continuing search operations, rescuers unfortunately discovered a baby who was found unresponsive. Medical professionals later confirmed the child’s death, according to the statement.

The survivors were transported back to the French port of Boulogne-sur-Mer, where they received care from health services and were processed by border police.

This incident is part of a concerning trend, as 2024 has already proven to be one of the deadliest years for migrants attempting to cross the English Channel. Earlier this month, four migrants, including a young child aged just two, tragically lost their lives during two separate attempts to make the crossing.

Just last month, around 20 migrants died in various shipwrecks while trying to navigate the treacherous waters of the Channel. The risks associated with these crossings have prompted increasing scrutiny and concern among authorities and humanitarian organizations alike.