A capsized duck boat in Branson, Missouri, killed at least 11, injured seven and left at least five people missing, Stone County Sheriff Doug Rader said.
Two of the adults injured at Table Rock Lake were reported in critical condition, according to the hospital. Two other adults and three children also were taken to Cox Medical Center Branson. Their injuries were considered minor.
Some of those who died Thursday night were children, authorities said.
The region suffered severe evening thunderstorms, including winds in excess of 60 mph, and the conditions are believed to be what caused the boat to sink to the bottom of the lake. Eyewitness video showed the craft taking on water as waves lashed at its sides.
Search efforts were suspended for the night and scheduled to resume Friday morning.
Suzanne Smagala-Potts of Ride the Ducks Branson, the company involved in the accident, released a statement that read in part: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic accident that occurred this evening. … This incident has deeply affected all of us. We will continue to do all we can to assist the families who were involved and the authorities as they continue with the search and rescue. The safety of our guests and employees is our number one priority.”
