At least 40 people were rescued, and more are missing, after the makeshift boat they were on capsized off the coast of Puerto Rico, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.
The vessel was in the water for more than 12 hours when it was spotted by a passing boatabout noon, Sept. 28. That passing boat was able to rescue four people.
The makeshift boat began capsizing late Sept. 27 after a fight broke out on the boat and some people on board were severely injured with a machete, authorities said. Other people on the boat reportedly jumped into the water without life jackets, attempting to reach a nearby island.
Two bodies were recovered from the boat. Survivors estimated there were 60 people on board at one time, according to U.S. Coast Guard officials.
Who was on the makeshift boat that capsized off Puerto Rico?
Authorities have not released details regarding the passengers on the boat, where the boat originated from or where it was headed.
A search continued Sept. 29 for survivors. Crews from Puerto Rico as well as U.S. Customs Air and Marine Operations and the Dominican Republic Air Force were assisting in the search.
The Coast Guard is asking anyone with information that might help with the search to call Sector San Juan at 787-289-2041.
Michelle Spitzer is a journalist for The USA TODAY NETWORK-FLORIDA. As the network’s Rapid Response reporter, she covers Florida’s breaking news. You can get all of Florida’s best content directly in your inbox each weekday day by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY, at https://floridatoday.com/newsletters
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Coast Guard saves 40 off Puerto Rico after fight leads to boat capsize
