Washington — An alleged drug-trafficking boat that was destroyed last week by the U.S. military appeared to be turning around when it was hit, according to two people familiar with the matter.

The individuals onboard saw the military aircraft overhead and then attempted to turn back before the U.S. repeatedly hit the boat, one of the sources told CBS News.

The New York Times first reported the development.

President Trump said last week that the strike killed 11 people. The administration has claimed that the vessel coming from Venezuela was operated by the Tren de Aragua gang, which has been designated by the White House as a foreign terrorist organization.

White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said in a statement to CBS News on Thursday, "The President acted in line with the law

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