article_snippet.sent: The rest of the animals had either died or were dying, coastguards and officials said.
article_snippet.sent: It was becoming dark and too dangerous to continue the rescue work at this beach, where we could not bring heavy equipment,' a Hokota city official said. '
article_snippet.sent: Television footage showed several animals had been badly cut, and many had deep gashes on several animals skin.
article_snippet.sent: Speaking earlier today a coastguard official said they are aware a number of the sea creatures have died. '
article_snippet.sent: a coastguard official added.
article_snippet.sent: Three had been successfully returned to the sea by the late afternoon, A Hokota city official added.
article_snippet.sent: The killing was brought to worldwide attention with the Oscar-winning documentary 'The Cove'.
highlights_snippet.sent: Rescuers worked tirelessly to save creatures, but only three survived .
  