It has been reported that up to 17 immigrants lost their lives while attempting to reach the Canary Islands by boat.

The tragedy happened when a gas oven exploded inside the boat. The immigrants had already spent 22 days at sea. It is estimated that the boat was carrying up to 97 passengers in total and that conditions on board were terrible.

This is just one of many tragedies where immigrants have lost their lives in a desperate attempt to reach the Canary Islands. This summer has seen hundreds trying to reach the safety of Spanish shores.