Tourist boat sinks on Missouri lake, killing at least 11 people

A tourist boat carrying more than 30 people has capsized and sunk on Table Rock Lake in southwest Missouri, killing at least 11 people, local officials say. A search is continuing for several others who remain unaccounted-for.

The accident near Branson happened at 7:10 p.m. CT on Thursday when a severe thunderstorm hit the area. An amphibious vehicle, which was operated by “Ride the Ducks,” capsized and sank while it was carrying 31 people, including children.

Stone County Sheriff Doug Rader said at least 11 people were confirmed to have died and seven others – three of them children – were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Two of the survivors are in critical condition, according to CoxHealth.

A number of other survivors made it to the shore safely, but “approximately” five people were still unaccounted-for at 11:30 p.m. CT. Sheriff Rader told reporters that divers will resume their search of the water on Friday morning.

There was no immediate word on the identities of the passengers and crew.

The ‘Ride the Duck’ boats are amphibious vehicles, taking tourists on a tour of the Branson area and onto Table Rock Lake for about 20 minutes. Similar tours take place in a number of states.