Overview

• One migrant died and seven others were injured, including two with severe burns, after a fire broke out on a small boat attempting to cross the English Channel early Monday morning.
• The fire was reportedly caused by a faulty outboard motor on the overcrowded vessel, which was organized by people-smuggling networks.
• Around 60 men, women, and children were rescued near Le Portel, northern France, and treated for injuries or hypothermia by emergency responders.
• French prosecutors have launched an inquiry into the incident, and judicial police are pursuing the smugglers responsible for arranging the crossing.
• This year, over 10,000 migrants have crossed the Channel, a 40% increase from 2024, with more than 10 fatalities reported so far in 2025.