Rescuers Save Man Trapped for Eight Days After Venezuela Earthquakes
A 43-year-old security guard survived a remarkable rescue on Thursday. Hernan Gil spent eight days trapped under rubble following twin earthquakes in Venezuela. His survival brought a rare moment of hope amid the country’s devastating disaster.
Rescue teams pulled Gil from the remains of a seven-storey building in Catia La Mar. This coastal area in La Guaira state suffered heavy damage. The complex operation lasted three days. Teams carefully removed debris before they finally reached him.
International Collaboration
Emergency personnel from seven countries joined the effort. Teams from Venezuela, Chile, the United States, Portugal, Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Mexico worked together. Their coordination proved essential for success.
In the final stage, two rescuers entered a narrow three-metre tunnel. Meanwhile, around 30 others cleared rubble from the parking area. They also used a rotary hammer to cut through a metal plate. This step became necessary after they assessed risks from a nearby unstable structure.
Sustaining the Survivor
Rescuers supplied Gil with water regularly. They also installed a tube to provide fresh air. These actions helped keep him alive during the long wait.
One rescuer described the operation as extremely challenging. He noted that he had never witnessed such a difficult and prolonged rescue.