Phu Tho, Vietnam—A boat collision on the Red River left three people dead this morning. The accident occurred during low visibility conditions caused by heavy rain. Waterway police responded to the scene shortly after the distress call.

The two vessels were traveling in opposite directions when they impacted near a narrow channel. One boat sustained heavy damage to its hull and began taking on water. Three victims were trapped inside the cabin as the boat went under.

Divers from the provincial rescue unit worked for several hours to reach the sunken vessel. The current was extremely strong due to recent weather patterns. Visibility underwater was near zero, making the recovery operation difficult.

All three bodies were eventually recovered by mid-afternoon. They have been transported to the district hospital for identification. Officials are currently notifying the next of kin.

Traffic on the river was halted for most of the day. Police have cordoned off the crash site to preserve evidence. They are interviewing survivors from the other vessel to piece together the events.

Preliminary findings suggest the collision may have resulted from navigation errors in poor weather. No official charges have been filed yet. Investigators are analyzing radar logs and engine records from both boats.

The Red River is currently flowing at high capacity. Debris from upstream remains a significant hazard for all river traffic. The waterway will remain closed until the police complete their initial site sweep.

Boats are still being held at the nearest dock for inspection. Authorities are working to clear the river channel before allowing commercial traffic to resume. The recovery of the wreckage is expected to continue tomorrow.