Tragedy Strikes as Seven Migrants Drown in Boat Capsize Near Spain's Canary Islands Dock
Tragic boat capsizes off Canary Islands, claiming seven migrant women's and children's lives amid ongoing Atlantic migration dangers.
Spanish emergency services have confirmed that four women and three young girls lost their lives when a small boat carrying migrants capsized as it arrived at the port of El Hierro, one of Spain’s Canary Islands, on Wednesday.
According to Spain's maritime rescue service, the tragic incident occurred after authorities located the vessel approximately six miles (9.6 kilometers) from shore. As rescuers began removing minors from the overcrowded boat upon its arrival at the dock, a sudden shift in movement caused the vessel to tip and overturn, sending many occupants into the water.
Emergency officials from the Canary Islands reported that, among the victims, were four adult women, a teenage girl, and two younger girls. A rescue diver located the body of one of the children after the accident. In addition to the fatalities, a helicopter transported two more children—a girl and a boy—who had nearly drowned, to a local hospital where they remain in serious condition.
Local media and rescue agencies indicate the ill-fated boat appeared to be carrying over 100 people. Teams from the Spanish Red Cross and maritime rescue worked together to pull survivors from the sea amid chaotic scenes at the port.
For years, the Spanish archipelago—situated off Africa’s west coast—has been a dangerous but regular route for migrants aiming to reach European territory. Many attempt the perilous journey in dinghies and inflatable boats that are not equipped for long distances or rough ocean conditions. Thousands are believed to have lost their lives during such crossings.
Nearly 47,000 people successfully completed the crossing to the Canary Islands last year, surpassing previous annual records for a second consecutive time. Most of those making the journey were citizens of Mali, Senegal, and Morocco, often departing from Mauritania’s coastline. The arrivals also include thousands of unaccompanied minors, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian challenges facing rescue and support agencies in the area.
According to official figures, by mid-May of the current year, about 10,800 migrants had reached the Canary Islands by the Atlantic route—a decrease of 34 percent compared to the same period in 2024. Nevertheless, the latest tragedy underscores the persistent dangers and desperation faced by those seeking a safer future in Europe.
