Media reports say at least 270 people are missing and feared dead in the water of Tunisia after the boat they were in broke down in bad weather. The boat was reportedly overloaded with more than 800 refugees from Libya when strong winds and waves sparked panic among the passengers. The TAP news agency reports the fearful passengers began pushing one another while trying to transfer to lifeboats.
The Tunisian coast guard responded to a distress call about the accident. About 570 people were rescued and at least 2 bodies were recovered. Seven injuries were reported. Authorities believe all of the missing most likely drowned in the rough water.
The refugees were headed to the Italian island of Lampedusa. Thousands of people have fled Libya since rebels began fighting forces commanded by Libyan ruler Moammar Gadhafi.
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