Greek ferry tragedy claims at least 8 as most rescued

(Vatican Radio) More passengers have been evacuated from a Greek ferry that burst ablaze early Sunday in the Adriatic Sea as it was travelling from Greece to Italy.

Helicopters defied high winds, stormy seas and darkness Monday to pluck hundreds of passengers from the ferry more than 24 hours after the blaze erupted in the cargo hold.  Italian authorities say 427 people including 56 crew members have been rescued from the ferry, and at least 8 bodies recovered.

But the original manifest showed 478 passengers and crew aboard.  Rescue workers are still scouring the area for signs of anyone who may still be missing.

Luca Attanasio filed this report from Rome: