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A cliff collapses near Biarritz lighthouse, killing a diver and leaving another missing

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BIARRITZ, France (AP) — A massive section of coastline near the lighthouse in Biarritz, a resort town on France’s southwestern Atlantic coast, collapsed Wednesday evening, killing one diver and leaving another missing, local authorities said.

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BIARRITZ, France (AP) — A massive section of coastline near the lighthouse in Biarritz, a resort town on France’s southwestern Atlantic coast, collapsed Wednesday evening, killing one diver and leaving another missing, local authorities said.

The collapse occurred around 8:20 p.m. while three divers were at the base of the cliff, Biarritz City Hall said in a statement. One escaped unharmed and was assisted by emergency teams.

Rescuers, including specialized divers, launched a search operation for the two other persons. They recovered the body of a female diver. Searches for the other diver resumed Thursday.

Rescue workers on boats search for a missing persona near a massive section of coastline which collapsed Wednesday evening, killing one diver and leaving another missing, in Biarritz, Thursday, June 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Yohan Bonnet)
Rescue workers on boats search for a missing persona near a massive section of coastline which collapsed Wednesday evening, killing one diver and leaving another missing, in Biarritz, Thursday, June 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Yohan Bonnet)

Officials have banned public access, swimming and boating within 300 meters (985 feet) of the cliff because of the risk of further collapse.

Biarritz is a tourist destination known for its rugged cliffs, beaches and status as one of Europe’s premier surfing spots.

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