Eight fishermen missing and one dead after collision with Thai trawler

Shanghai: Local authorities have identified the vessel that collided with a Chinese fishing boat, causing it to capsize near the Yangtze River estuary as Thai ship M.V. Sea Utility, writes Xinhua. All 11 people on board the Chinese fishing boat from Zhejiang fell into the water after the boat capsized and sank at about 3:40a.m. Three people were rescued at about 4:10 a.m, but one died from serious injuries. The search for the eight missing fishermen is ongoing.

The Sea Utility, which is 120 meters long and 19 meters wide was sailing toward Philippines when the accident happened, the maritime bureau of eastern China's Zhejiang Province said. The vessel is reported to have fled the scene of the accident. No further details were given.

At least 30 rescue vessels and a helicopter have joined the rescue operation.

Maritime authorities are investigating the cause of the accident.  [12/05/09]