DHAKA: The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Victoria says at least four people have died after a whale-watching vessel sank off the coast of Tofino, B.C., Sunday.

The centre says 27 people were on board the tour vessel when it sank west of Vargas Island, reports the CBCNEWS.

Paramedics confirmed the three deaths at 5:10 p.m. PT, while the boat sank an hour earlier. Paramedics say the number of fatalities could climb.

Four victims were transferred to hospital, while another five were being warmed by first responders after spending time in the water.

A critical care transport crew arrived to fly two patients to a hospital outside of Tofino.

Meanwhile, BC Ambulance Service says some survivors are being treated and warmed up in local residences under the supervision of paramedics.

Tofino General Hospital only has 10 acute care beds and five emergency stretchers.

It is unclear if all the passengers on the vessel have been accounted for.

BDST: 0900 HRS, OCT 26, 2015
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