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Search for Migrants Missing From Boat in Fla. Ends

Coast Guard suspends search for migrants from boat that ran aground east of downtown Miami

The U.S. Coast Guard has suspended the search for migrants missing after their boat ran aground east of downtown Miami.

Border Patrol spokeswoman Elee Erice says 33 people have been accounted for, including three found dead.

As many as nine people could be lost. Authorities weren't sure if some passengers made it safely to land. The search was suspended late Friday.

The aging, rusty boat got into trouble Friday morning. A bystander spotted the vessel in distress and called officials. Shortly after, several people jumped into the water.

Erice says four of the people found were Brazilians and the rest were from the Dominican Republic.

Federal and state officials are investigating whether it was a failed smuggling attempt.

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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