Rescued earthquake survivor dies hours later in Colombia

Libardo Brochero Gutiérrez, a 70-year-old man rescued after being trapped for nearly 30 hours by a powerful earthquake in Buenaventura, Colombia, has died. His passing came just hours after emergency teams located him alive in the Rockefeller neighborhood and transported him for medical care.

The magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck Colombia on Monday, August 10, trapped Brochero. His rescue had offered a glimmer of hope, but his family later confirmed his death, ending the brief period of anticipation following his extrication. The devastating seismic event also claimed the life of Brochero's wife, Dilia Góngora, whose body was recovered after she was trapped during the quake.

Family and friends have shared heartfelt tributes, mourning the loss of the couple. One relative wrote of Libardo and Dilia, "from eternal life they will guide and care for us always." Another described Libardo as a "great person, noble and helpful," while a message poignantly noted the tragic juxtaposition of his rescue and his wife's death, stating, "Yesterday, the joy of your rescue with the pain of the departure of your great wife Dilia... Today, the sadness of your departure with the consolation that you leave to accompany your beloved wife."

Brochero's death is part of the preliminary toll from the earthquake, which has significantly impacted Buenaventura. As of August 12, authorities reported 11 deaths attributed to crushing injuries and 8 more related to the quake's aftermath. Additionally, 330 people were injured, and thousands of homes suffered damage, with 540 completely destroyed.

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Ayer, la alegría de tu rescate con el dolor de la partida de tu gran esposa Dilia... Hoy, la tristeza de tu partida con el consuelo de que partes a acompañar a tu amada esposa... Amigo, siempre recordaré esa sonrisa tierna y tu mirada de la vida