Migrant dies in English Channel as crossings surge

A migrant has died while attempting to cross the English Channel in a small boat, with authorities confirming the incident occurred early Friday morning. The RNLI launched an all-weather lifeboat and Border Force vessels brought both the deceased and a group of survivors, numbering over 50, ashore at Dover, where the body was taken to a blue forensics tent. The incident comes amid a surge in Channel crossings, with Home Office data showing 705 people arrived in the UK on Tuesday, marking the highest single-day total this year, and the 2025 cumulative arrivals now standing at over 9,000—significantly higher than previous years. Overcrowding of dinghies has been highlighted by officials as a major risk factor contributing to the recent increase in tragedies. Last year, at least 78 people died attempting similar crossings, with some charities suggesting the true toll may be even higher. The UK government is reportedly in talks with France to address the issue of returning illegal migrants who cross the Channel.