Three dead, including child, in Channel crossing attempt

Key Points:

• A small boat carrying 105 people encountered difficulties off the northern coast of France, resulting in the deaths of a 10-year-old child and two 30-year-old women, according to local authorities.
• The boat departed from Blériot Plage in Sangatte, and officials responded to a distress call; three passengers were treated on board but later confirmed dead by emergency medical teams.
• Initial findings suggest the deaths were caused by trampling, and an investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause, with Pas-de-Calais prefect blaming smuggling networks for exposing vulnerable migrants to deadly risks.
• Of the remaining 102 passengers, nine were treated by emergency services upon arrival in Calais, and this incident brings the total migrant deaths in the region to 20 so far this year, comparable to last year's 21.
• Thousands of migrants attempt the dangerous Channel crossing annually, with increased attempts in warmer months; the UK recently recorded its highest number of small boat arrivals this year and continues efforts to deter crossings through agreements with France.