At least one dead and three missing as boat full of British tourists celebrating birthday capsizes on lake in Italy
AT least one person is dead and three missing after a boat said to be carrying British tourists celebrating a birthday capsized on a lake in Italy.
The 52ft boat collapsed during a “whirlwind” on Lake Maggiore on the border between Italy and Switzerland, with everyone on board thrown into choppy waters.
La Repubblica reported that 22 British tourists celebrating a birthday party and two crew were on the boat, with fourteen making it to the shore.
Five others were rescued by police and firefighters – but at least one person is dead and three others missing.
Two people were taken to hospital in a “moderately critical” condition, with three treated at hospital for less serious injuries and 15 others treated at the scene.
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Seven ambulances, specialist firemen, divers, the coast guard and an air ambulance attended the scene after a passenger in another boat sounded the alarm.
Video shared by firefighters showed a helicopter flying over choppy waters, with debris including chairs floating on the lake.
Lombardy governor Attilio Fontana said: “Unfortunately there is news of some missing people.
“A whirlwind caused a very serious accident.
“The firefighters of the Milan diving unit are at work on the spot together with the guard coast, to the air rescue and to the ambulances of Areu – informs Fontana.
“I am following with apprehension the updates of the rescue teams on the spot which I thank.”
The Foreign Office said: “We are in contact with local authorities in Italy after a boat accident and are ready to provide consular assistance to any British nationals involved.”
Lake Maggiore, on the southern edge of the Alps, is the second-largest lake in Italy and a popular destination for British tourists.