The lifeless body of Roberto Álvarez Castillo, aged 60, was uncovered amidst the debris of a collapsed building in Santo Suárez, Havana. Rescue teams discovered the body past midnight in the wreckage of a three-story building with high ceilings on San Bernardino Street, reported the local official newspaper, Tribuna de La Habana.
Family members present at the scene were provided with full support from health specialists and local authorities, the report stated. Following the discovery of Álvarez's body, the search was called off. Lieutenant Colonel Omar Herrera, deputy chief of police in Havana, confirmed that after deploying canine units, firefighters, and gathering testimonies from two individuals who were with the deceased at the time of the collapse and managed to escape unharmed, no other individuals were found at the site.
The next step involves removing the debris and demolishing the remaining part of the structure. Initial news of the collapse was reported by the Facebook page La Tijera, which specified that the building was located at the intersection of San Bernardino, Serrano, and Durege in the 10 de Octubre municipality. A user noted that the central section of the building had nearly completely caved in.
This incident has heightened concern among residents who point to the evident deterioration of neighboring buildings. The note highlights, "Residents fear this won't be the last collapse in the area." Unfortunately, such occurrences are not isolated in this vicinity. On February 16, a similar collapse occurred nearby, with authorities failing to provide an effective response.
The author of the post questioned, "How many more lives must be endangered before the regime takes action? These types of tragedies are no longer news—they're routine." The death toll from the two collapses that took place between Friday and Saturday in the Cuban capital has now risen to four.
On Friday, three individuals lost their lives following the collapse of another multifamily building at Monte 722, between Rastro and Carmen, in the Old Havana municipality.
Understanding Building Collapses in Havana
What caused the building collapse in Santo Suárez?
The precise cause of the building collapse in Santo Suárez has not been detailed, but the incident reflects a broader issue of structural deterioration in Havana.
How are families of victims supported after such incidents?
Families of victims receive assistance from health professionals and local authorities, as seen in the support provided to Roberto Álvarez Castillo's family.
What measures are taken following a building collapse in Havana?
After a building collapse, authorities typically engage in debris removal and may proceed with demolishing any remaining unsafe structures.