Search for survivors continues after Cuban boat flips over near Florida Keys; at least 2 bodies found so far

The U.S. Coast Guard was still searching for possible survivors Friday after a boat traveling from Cuba with 20 people on board overturned near the Florida Keys.

The vessel flipped over sometime Wednesday evening about 16 miles south of Key West, authorities said. Coast Guard crews have since rescued eight people and recovered two dead bodies, according to a news release.

Hopes of finding any more survivors were beginning to fade, but Coast Guard officials said they would continue to search “throughout the day” Friday.

“Our responders are focused on the search for survivors,” Senior Chief Seth Haynes said in a statement. He also urged any mariners who see or hear anything to “render assistance if possible” or immediately contact the Coast Guard.

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The survivors told authorities they left Cuba’s Puerto de Mariel on Sunday and were heading to Florida when the boat capsized. The purpose of the trip was still under investigation, but sources told CBS Miami that the small vessel was filled with Cuban migrants.

The Coast Guard’s Resolute crew spotted some of the survivors in the water while on routine patrol Thursday, authorities said. The eight survivors were brought to a Coast Guard cutter where they would receive food, water and basic medical attention, according to the news release.

The U.S. Navy, Custom and Border Protection’s air and marine operation and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission were assisting in the search.

The names and ages of the occupants have not been released.