Coast Guard ends search for survivors days after migrant boat capsized off Puerto Rico
The U.S. Coast Guard said Monday it was stopping its search for survivors several days after a migrant boat traveling near Puerto Rico capsized.
After the boat capsized last Thursday, rescue efforts began after a Customs and Border Protection helicopter flew over the scene. The bodies of 11 people were recovered and another 38 were rescued, but between 60 and 75 passengers were estimated to be aboard the vessel, leaving the true toll unknown.
The boat sank near Desecheo Island, just west of Puerto Rico. Of the survivors, 36 were from Haiti and two were from the Dominican Republic. All 11 of the deceased were Haitian women. It’s unknown what nationality any other possible victims are.
“Our most heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of those who did not survive or remain missing,” said Capt. Gregory Magee, commander of the San Juan Coast Guard sector. “These crews have done their utmost to ensure that if there were any more survivors, that they would have had the best chance to be rescued.”
Fermín Montilla, a 43-year-old Dominican man, has been charged with smuggling immigrants, federal authorities said.
In January, a migrant boat traveling between the Bahamas and Florida sank. As many as 40 are believed to have died.
With News Wire Services
