In what emergency services are calling "nothing short of a miracle," multiple residents have survived a catastrophic ten-storey tower block collapse in Rome's Tor Sapienza district.
The terrifying incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon, sending clouds of dust and debris billowing through the eastern suburb as the entire structure came crashing down in seconds.
The Moment of Terror
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and panic as the building at Via di Viale Giorgio Morandi gave way without warning. Local resident Luigi Ippoliti recounted the terrifying moments: "We heard an incredibly loud noise, like an earthquake or explosion. Then we saw this enormous cloud of dust - it was like something from a disaster movie."
Emergency services rushed to the scene within minutes, with firefighters, police, and medical teams launching a massive rescue operation that continued through the night.
Miraculous Rescues from the Rubble
Incredibly, despite the scale of the collapse, rescue teams have already pulled several survivors from the wreckage. One man was dramatically saved after being trapped for hours, his rescue captured on video as emergency workers carefully extracted him from the precarious rubble.
Rome's mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, visited the scene, confirming that while some residents remain unaccounted for, the number of confirmed survivors represents "a miracle that gives us hope."
Emergency Response and Investigation
The collapse has prompted a major investigation into building safety standards in the area. Fire brigade spokesman Luca Cari confirmed that multiple teams are working around the clock, using sniffer dogs and specialised equipment to locate anyone who might still be trapped.
Nearby buildings have been evacuated as a precautionary measure, with authorities assessing the structural integrity of surrounding properties. The local community has mobilised to support displaced residents, offering temporary accommodation and essential supplies.
As dawn breaks over the disaster site, the rescue operation continues with renewed determination, while questions begin to emerge about what caused the sudden failure of the residential tower.
