Four people die in Channel crossing attempt, French authorities say

Q: What caused the deaths of four people in the English Channel?

The deaths occurred due to a sinking taxi boat during an attempted crossing of the English Channel.

Q: Where did the incident involving the four fatalities take place?

The incident took place off the coast of Boulogne, between the beaches of Équihen and Écault, south of Calais.

Four people have died off the coast of northern France after attempting to cross the English Channel, local authorities have said.

"A taxi boat sinking occurred today. The situation is still being assessed and remains subject to change," local French authorities in Calais said in a press statement carried by Reuters.

French media is reporting that rescue efforts are under way on Thursday morning after the incident off the coast of Boulogne, between the beaches of Équihen and Écault, south of Calais.

A press conference is expected to be held shortly.

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