Man Survives After Eight Days Beneath Rubble in Venezuela Earthquake

In late June, twin earthquakes struck Venezuela, collapsing buildings and leaving many trapped beneath the debris.

Hernán Gil, a Venezuelan resident, was one such victim, buried under 140 tonnes of concrete for eight days before rescuers finally located him.

Emergency crews, beginning their search on Saturday, worked for over 100 hours to lift the heavy rubble, eventually freeing Gil alive and breathing.

The operation received vital support from international teams, including specialists from Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Mexico, Portugal and the United States, who assisted with heavy lifting equipment and search‑and‑rescue techniques.

The earthquake event has claimed more than 2,300 lives, and thousands remain missing, deepening the urgency for continued search operations across the country.

The successful rescue offers hope to families across Venezuela and highlights the importance of global cooperation in responding to natural disasters.