Colombia: Dramatic Rescue of Infant from Earthquake Rubble
Translated from Greek, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Rescuers in Cali, Colombia, are searching for survivors after a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck the region, causing widespread destruction and over 130 fatalities.
- Volunteers and rescue teams formed human chains to clear rubble, responding to calls for help and listening for signs of life.
- One dramatic rescue involved pulling a baby and a man from the debris after a survivor's whistle alerted rescuers to their location.
Dramatic scenes unfolded in Cali, Colombia, as rescue efforts intensified following a devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake that has claimed over 130 lives. Volunteers and professional rescuers worked tirelessly, using basic tools and their bare hands to sift through the rubble of collapsed buildings in a desperate search for survivors.
In one particularly harrowing incident, a baby and a man were pulled alive from the debris after rescuers heard a whistle from trapped individuals. The rescue operation involved forming human chains to remove bricks and concrete, with teams pausing frequently to listen for any signs of life. The wife of one of the rescued individuals remained trapped, highlighting the ongoing urgency of the situation.
We are trying to get them all out alive.
The earthquake has left a trail of destruction, with 86 buildings reported collapsed and seven airports suspending operations. In Cali alone, at least 188 people are missing, according to the city's mayor. The community has rallied, with many citizens bringing supplies and food to aid the firefighters and assist those affected by the disaster. The scale of the devastation and the resilience of the survivors underscore the profound impact of the seismic event.
One of the rescuers asked those trapped to whistle, and someone whistled in response. They pulled out a man and a baby, but the wife is still in there.
Originally published by Ta Nea in Greek. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.