6 Oct 2012

Hong Kong ferry toll rises to 39

11:28 am on 6 October 2012

The death toll from a Hong Kong ferry collision on Monday night has risen to 39.

AAP reports the search for survivors was formally called off on Friday.

A government statement said the Marine Department would continue to investigate the cause of the collision. Police are also conducting a criminal investigation.

AAP reports the left rear of the Lamma IV was torn open in the collision with a high-speed ferry, throwing scores of passengers into the sea.

The vessel's stern flooded within minutes, trapping other passengers in the submerged cabin.