LA GUAIRA, Venezuela — Emergency responders from around the world converged on the coastal city of La Guaira to rescue Hernán Alberto Gil Flores, a security guard who survived more than a week trapped beneath the rubble of a collapsed shopping center following a powerful earthquake on June 24. The successful extraction of Gil on Thursday marked a rare and remarkable event amid the extensive destruction and high casualty counts throughout Venezuela.
Gil had been entombed under approximately 100 tons of debris after the partial collapse of the Galerias Playa Grande commercial center, a complex including multi-story buildings. The twin tremors struck in rapid succession, leading to the building's failure and the tragic loss of many lives. Official figures reported Friday indicated at least 2,645 deaths, over 12,600 injuries, and thousands still missing in the disaster.
The rescue operation was carried out by a multinational Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) coalition of some 3,000 emergency personnel from about two dozen countries, including the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD). The international team comprised search-and-rescue specialists, medical staff, structural engineers, and canine units, many of whom have trained and operated together in previous global disasters.
LACoFD Captain Adam Bradley described the operation as a source of pride and hope, emphasizing the teamwork among responders from various nations. Assistant L.A. County Fire Chief Trey Espy highlighted the close coordination with counterparts from Chile, Mexico, Costa Rica, and other countries, noting they often work “on a first-name basis,” which facilitated the intricate excavation efforts.
Initial signs of life were detected on June 28 by Costa Rican rescuers, with a Chilean team confirming Gil’s presence the following day using radar and sonar technology in the sub-basement of the collapsed structure. Rescuers drilled small holes to insert cameras and communication devices, allowing them to assess Gil’s condition and provide him with water, nutrition, and medicine over several days before the extraction.
The extraction itself required delicate manual labor to avoid triggering further collapse. Heavy machinery was avoided due to the risk of vibrations endangering both Gil and rescue personnel. Responders cleared debris—using shovels, buckets, and hands—from tunnels extending approximately 75 feet from the nearest access point to where Gil was trapped. The security guard’s survival was aided by a small kiosk that created a protective void amid the falling debris.
Gil was eventually brought out on a gurney, appearing bruised but in stable condition, wearing an oxygen mask and neck brace. His wife, Franyimar González, who maintained a daily vigil outside the site, expressed gratitude and relief at his survival.
The rescue operation underscores the value of coordinated international response teams in managing complex disaster scenarios. It also provided a rare positive moment for Venezuela, where the aftermath of the earthquake has left widespread devastation and mourning. For many responders, the successful recovery of Gil represented not only a technical achievement but a powerful symbol of resilience and hope amid tragedy.