Seven family members' bodies found in La Guaira building collapse after 55-day search

Seven members of a family have been found in the debris of the Residencias Bahía Mar building in La Guaira, Venezuela, 55 days after the earthquakes on June 24. The discovery brings a tragic end to an intensive search operation for Maru Goncalves, who was looking for her daughter, granddaughter, and five other relatives.

Goncalves recounted that her family members were in the building's parking lot, preparing to travel to Caracas, when the structure collapsed. "Yes, they were in the back of the elevators, the stairs, next to the pool. In the parking lot. They are going to take the bodies out so I can close this chapter," she told journalist Maryorin Méndez.

The arduous search involved heavy machinery and the deployment of a drone. Goncalves expressed profound gratitude for the assistance received. "Thanks to all the machines that responded to my call for help, to Taylor from the drone, and to everyone who helped me and dedicated themselves to helping me, to spreading my videos. I give you infinite thanks that I was finally able to find my family. Thank you," she said.

The use of aerial technology proved crucial in locating the seven bodies within the earthquake-affected zone. The drone also helped identify the presence of two other individuals. It is estimated that between nine and ten people were in the Residencias Bahía Mar building when the earthquakes struck. Rescue teams continue their efforts in the area, searching for more than 10 reported missing persons.