Two people have died and a 12-year-old is missing after a water taxi and small ferry crashed early on Friday morning near the island of Terschelling, off the northern coast of the Netherlands. 

Two boats crash off coast of Dutch island 

Emergency services responded to the call at around 7.15am on Friday, October 21. Six boats and a helicopter were deployed in order to search for the two people who were initially reported missing. The Dutch Coast Guard is still searching for a 12-year-old, explaining that a strong current means it's easy for someone to be swept away by the water and so the search area must be continuously expanded. A second person is also rumoured to still be missing. 

Shortly after 10am, it was reported that two people had lost their lives as a result of injuries sustained in the crash, although the exact cause of death remains unknown. Four of the seven water taxi passengers were injured, all of whom are currently being treated in hospital.

Incident being investigated, cause of crash unclear

One eyewitness explained to NOS that the De Bazuin water taxi was “as good as sunk” in the wake of the collision. With 19 passengers and seven crew onboard, the Tiger ferry owned by shipping company Doeksen is reported to have sustained only minor damage following the crash. It sailed into port in Harlingen later on Friday morning.

The Dutch Safety Board (OVV) is investigating the incident, the cause of which remains unclear. The captain of the water taxi is due to be taken in for questioning later today, while the captain and first mate of the Tiger ferry have both been detained by police.