Nation & World News

Greek ferry fire: 10 dead; all passengers reportedly evacuated

By Cox Media Group National Content Desk
Dec 29, 2014

The Greek coast guard says at least 10 people have died in a ferry fire near the island of Corfu, according to The Associated Press.

Meanwhile, officials tweeted Monday that all passengers have been evacuated, CNN reported. Originally, hundreds were stranded on the ferry, which caught fire early Sunday in the Adriatic Sea off the western coast of Greece.

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Authorities said the fire is believed to have broken out in the ship's car deck but aren't sure what ignited the flames. (Video via Rai)

One truck driver who was a passenger is quoted by CNN as saying, "Trucks filled with oil were 'packed like sardines'" on the vessel.

And according to Sky News, officials believe the ferry was holding about 195 vehicles when the fire started.

Of the more than 450 passengers and crew originally on board the burning vessel, the majority are Greeks, while dozens of others are from various European and international locations.

Scroll down or click here to see dramatic images from the scene.
This video includes images from Marina Militare Italiana.

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