35 dead in Caracas building collapse after earthquakes

Rescue operations at the collapsed Petunia building in Caracas have recovered 35 bodies and rescued 28 survivors, according to municipal mayor Gustavo Duque. The building fell on June 24 after two powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, shook Venezuela. Among the rescued was a pet belonging to a resident who died in the collapse.

Duque reported the midday toll on Saturday from the operation base, where rescue teams continue to work on the debris. He noted the significant support from hundreds of young volunteers who spontaneously joined the search and clearing efforts. The Petunia building is in Chacao, a prosperous area of Caracas.

To manage the influx of volunteers, Duque announced access restrictions to the immediate vicinity of the Petunia building and launched a website, soychacao.gov.ve, for volunteer coordination. He stressed that only specialized personnel can enter the unstable structure due to risks from exposed rebar, glass, and debris, stating he would not authorize unprepared individuals to enter due to moral responsibility.

Separately, National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez reported a national death toll of 1,430 from the June 24 earthquakes, with 3,238 injured and over 5,000 hospitalized. He also stated that 12,000 medical attentions had been provided in disaster zones, and 3,142 displaced families were housed in shelters.

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As mayor I cannot allow anyone to enter there without expertise, without the proper report.