**Tragedy Strikes as Child Migrant Dies in Channel** A child migrant has died in the English Channel after falling from a small boat this morning. The incident occurred on a crowded dinghy, which was carrying around 50 people. While 48 other migrants were rescued, the child’s body later washed ashore at Écault beach. Emergency services commander Jonathan Caruso reported that the boat continued its journey to England despite the tragedy. Cécile Gressier, the prosecutor in Boulogne-sur-Mer, confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the child's death. She stated, "An investigation has been opened to determine the circumstances of the death. The victim's age and nationality have not been determined." This incident follows the deaths of two Somali women migrants just a day earlier, who died under similar circumstances near Neufchâtel-Hardelot. Reports suggest they may have suffocated on the overcrowded boat or drowned in the sea. Boulogne prosecutors have initiated a criminal enquiry into the weekend's fatalities, aiming to identify the people smugglers responsible for these perilous crossings. The latest death brings the total number of migrants who have died attempting to reach Britain from France this year to at least 21. Earlier this month, three individuals, including children, died after being crushed at the bottom of a boat. In total, 78 migrants have lost their lives in 2024 while trying to make the crossing, marking a record since the surge in small boat crossings began in 2018. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has condemned these tragedies, stating, "Our government will intensify the fight against these mafias who are getting rich by organising these crossings of death." In April 2024, a criminal enquiry was launched following the deaths of five migrants, including a young girl, near Wimereux, close to Calais. The deadliest incident occurred in November 2021, when 27 migrants perished after their dinghy sank, the highest number of deaths recorded in a single event. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have pledged to enhance cooperation in combating people smuggling. However, they face ongoing criticism for perceived inaction. Both leaders have expressed hope that their proposed ‘one-in-one-out’ plan will deter potential asylum seekers by suggesting they may be swiftly returned if they attempt the crossing. Despite these efforts, over 32,000 people have crossed the Channel this year, and the small boats continue to launch.