Tragedy Strikes in George: Survivors Found in Collapsed Building
In a heartbreaking turn of events, rescuers in South Africa have uncovered 11 more survivors in the rubble of an apartment building that tragically collapsed in the coastal city of George on Monday.
The devastation has already claimed the lives of at least five individuals, with over 50 still unaccounted for following the collapse of the under-construction five-story building. The cause of the collapse remains unknown, prompting a thorough investigation.
Colin Deiner, chief director for disaster management, revealed, “We are in contact with 11 people, four of them are trapped in a basement.”
Video footage captured the harrowing moment when the building crumbled into a massive cloud of dust. At the scene on Tuesday morning, emergency workers tirelessly sifted through the debris, hoping to find more survivors.
Despite the challenging conditions, the rescue efforts continue as workers painstakingly clear the site. Mr. Deiner expressed hope that survivors could still be found as they begin the process of lifting the collapsed floors.
Tragically, two of the rescued individuals succumbed to their injuries, with three more fatalities reported by medics. The site remains restricted to the public, with onlookers expressing shock and disbelief at the devastating scene.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa offered his condolences to the affected families and emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to prevent such tragedies in the future. City Mayor Ald Van Wyk also expressed sympathy for those awaiting news of their loved ones.
Over 100 rescuers, aided by sniffer dogs and heavy lifting equipment, worked tirelessly through the night to locate trapped individuals. Despite the challenges, contact has been established with some of those still trapped under the rubble.
Images of the area now depict a flattened construction site, a stark reminder of the tragic events that unfolded. Local councillor Theresa Jeyi shared her shock, recounting the moment she witnessed the building collapse.
