A man has been rescued alive from the rubble of a collapsed shopping centre in Venezuela, eight days after a powerful earthquake struck the region. The dramatic rescue was captured on video and has been widely shared on social media.
Rescue Operation Details
The man, identified as 38-year-old José Gregorio, was trapped under debris at the Lago Mall in the city of Cumaná, in Sucre state. Rescue workers used heavy machinery and their bare hands to clear the concrete and steel that had pinned him down since the earthquake on June 25.
The 7.3-magnitude earthquake caused widespread destruction in the coastal region, killing at least 12 people and injuring hundreds. The collapse of the Lago Mall was one of the most notable incidents, with dozens feared trapped inside.
Survival Against the Odds
According to local officials, Gregorio survived by drinking his own urine and staying in a small air pocket. He was found in a stable condition and immediately taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. His rescue has been hailed as a miracle by the community and has brought a glimmer of hope amid the tragedy.
“This is a sign of hope for all of us,” said a rescue worker on site. “We never gave up, and we are overjoyed to have found him alive.”
Ongoing Search Efforts
Search and rescue operations continue at the site, with teams using sniffer dogs and listening devices to detect any signs of life. The earthquake also triggered landslides and damaged roads, complicating relief efforts. International aid has been arriving, with neighbouring countries offering support.
The Venezuelan government has declared a state of emergency in the affected areas and is coordinating with local authorities to provide shelter, food, and medical assistance to displaced residents.
