Child and student die in shipwreck in Amazonas; 5 people are missing
A tragic shipwreck in Amazonas, Brazil, claimed the lives of a child and a dental student, with several others still missing.
A recent shipwreck involving the boat Lima de Abreu XV near the Encontro das Águas in Manaus resulted in the deaths of a three-year-old girl and a 22-year-old dental student. The child, Samyla de Souza, was found lifeless upon arrival at a hospital while traveling with her grandmother and brother. The other victim, Lara Bianca, was from Nova Olinda do Norte, located 135 km from Manaus. The boat was reported to have capsized amid strong winds and waves during its journey between Manaus and Nova Olinda do Norte.
The Brazilian Navy confirmed the incident, indicating that the vessel was carrying passengers on the route when it overturned. Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene as strong winds contributed to the disaster, with passengers seen struggling in the water and awaiting rescue. Social media footage has emerged showing the immediate aftermath of the accident, capturing the urgency of the situation as rescuers responded.
So far, the Manaus Fire Department has successfully rescued 71 people, although seven remain missing. A passing boat was instrumental in the initial rescue efforts, highlighting the community's response to the tragedy. The search for those missing continues amid the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shipwreck, drawing attention to safety measures on waterways in the region.