Rescued after eight days: Man pulled alive from Venezuela earthquake rubble

Cheers erupted in Venezuela as Hernan Gil, 43, was pulled alive from the rubble of a collapsed building, eight days after a deadly earthquake struck the nation. The dramatic rescue is being described as a miracle, offering a glimmer of hope amidst widespread devastation.

For the past week, hundreds of rescuers from seven different countries had been working tirelessly on the operation. They managed to keep Gil alive by supplying him with water through a hose and providing oxygen via a tube inserted into the debris of the seven-story building where he was trapped. Gil had been at work in the building in Catia La Mar when the earthquake hit.

"This is a true miracle," Gil's wife told the AFP news agency while rescue efforts were underway. The earthquake has left a grim toll on Venezuela, with at least 2,300 people confirmed dead. Thousands more remain missing, and over 60,000 buildings have been damaged or destroyed. Approximately 11,000 people are reported injured, and more than 13,000 have lost their homes.

The successful rescue of Gil stands in stark contrast to the scale of the tragedy, highlighting the resilience and dedication of the rescue teams involved. It serves as a powerful reminder of the human spirit's capacity to endure and the possibility of hope even in the direst circumstances.

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This is a true miracle.