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Hundreds feared dead after Haiti ferry sinks
September 8, 1997
Web posted at: 12:45 p.m. EDT (1645 GMT)PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (CNN) -- As many as 400 people were missing and feared dead after a crowded ferry sank off the Haitian coast Monday, local officials said. More than 60 bodies had been recovered, one official said.
The ferry, named La Belle Gonaivienne, was on its way from the northern port of Montrouis to the island of La Gonave when it sank early Monday.
U.S. Coast Guard officials, said that Haitian Coast Guard officials believed that at least 700 people were on the ferry.
CNN Military Affairs Correspondent Jamie McIntyre with an update on the Haitian ferry accident: 
160K/15 sec. AIFF or WAV sound Haiti sent three coast guard boats to the scene, and the U.S. Coast Guard said it assisted local rescue efforts by sending a helicopter, boats and medical supplies.
At least 60 people survived the sinking and swam ashore, according to local media reports.
In 1993, an overloaded ferry carrying 1,000 people sank off the southern peninsula, and 700 people were killed.
Correspondents John Zarrella and Jamie McIntyreJamie McIntyre , The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report.
Related story:
- Haitian ferry sinks, 25 reported dead - September 8, 1997
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