Security guard’s miraculous escape as he is pulled from Venezuela earthquake rubble

3 Jul 2026 • 4:49 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Security guard’s miraculous escape as he is pulled from Venezuela earthquake rubble

A Venezuela earthquake survivor was pulled out from underneath the rubble by emergency rescue teams after eight days of being trapped.

Hernán Gil, a security guard, had been stuck beneath almost 140 tonnes of rubble after the ground gave way at Galerías Playa Grande shopping centre in La Guaira on 24 June.

The small security cabin he had been working in remained largely intact and shielded him from debris, as well as creating a crucial pocket of air.

On Sunday (28 June), a paramedic heard his cries for help and efforts began to try and free him. Footage shows the moment Gil was saved by rescuers, after days of digging away at the rubble.

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved