Rescue workers in Catia La Mar, Venezuela, pulled Alberto Gil alive from the basement of a collapsed building eight days after twin earthquakes struck the region. The Associated Press reported the rescue on July 2, 2026, showing images of Gil being carried away by emergency personnel.
Details of the rescue
Gil, a security guard, had been trapped since the first earthquake hit on June 24. A second quake followed shortly after, further destabilizing structures in the area. Search teams worked continuously, using heavy machinery and listening devices to locate survivors. The rescue operation involved dozens of firefighters, police, and volunteers.
According to officials, Gil was found in a small air pocket in the basement, with access to limited water but no food. He was conscious when rescued and immediately taken to a hospital for treatment of dehydration and minor injuries.
Impact of the twin quakes
The earthquakes, magnitudes 6.8 and 6.5, struck within hours of each other, causing widespread damage in Catia La Mar and surrounding areas. Hundreds of buildings collapsed, and thousands were left homeless. The death toll has risen to at least 150, with many still missing. Rescue efforts have been hampered by aftershocks and damaged infrastructure.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro declared a state of emergency and deployed military units to assist in search-and-rescue operations. International aid has been offered from neighboring countries and organizations.
Survivor's story
Alberto Gil, 34, had been working his shift when the first quake hit. He described feeling the ground shake violently and then everything went dark. In a brief statement from his hospital bed, Gil said, 'I heard voices above me for days. I kept shouting until they found me.' His family had feared the worst but remained hopeful.
Rescue coordinator Maria Lopez said, 'Finding Alberto alive after eight days is a miracle. It gives us strength to continue searching for others.'
