Two migrants died as they attempted to board overcrowded dinghies off the northern French coast on Thursday, with fighting breaking out at Camiers beach as people struggled for places. French prosecutors have opened criminal enquiries into both deaths—one man was found in the water in cardiorespiratory arrest and another body was discovered on a nearby beach—and investigations may lead to manslaughter charges against people smugglers or other migrants. This incident is part of a broader pattern of tragedy in the Channel, bringing the death toll to at least 21 people this year attempting the crossing to Britain.

The deaths occurred amid a surge in crossing attempts, with conditions favourable due to calm seas and good weather. Recent figures show 781 migrants reached Britain on a single day this week—the highest daily total this year—whilst 18,565 have arrived since January, representing a 40 per cent decrease compared to the same period in 2025. The incident highlighted the continuing dangers of overcrowded vessels; footage also emerged of a man abandoning a young child in the sea during an attempted crossing, though the child was rescued by French lifeboat crew. Despite enforcement efforts, people-trafficking gangs continue to acquire dinghies and outboard motors with ease, and several uncontrolled landings have occurred in recent days.