Overview
- The vessel was located 26 nautical miles southwest of Crete after a Turkish cargo ship alerted Greek authorities.
- Greek Coast Guard units and Frontex deployed ships, an aircraft, and a Super Puma helicopter to the scene.
- Bodies were discovered inside a partly deflated, waterlogged inflatable, with the mayor of Ierapetra saying two sides had collapsed, compressing passengers into a tight space.
- Survivors told rescuers a storm left those aboard without shelter, food, or drinking water as the vessel became unstable.
- Investigations are ongoing into the victims’ identities and cause of death, as officials revised initial reports from 18 fatalities to 17 as autopsies proceed; UNHCR reports more than 16,770 arrivals on Crete this year after departures from Libya.