Recently shared photos on social media reveal the extensive structural damage to a building located at the bustling corner of San Rafael and Galiano in Central Havana. The building's roof collapsed on Thursday, causing the floor below it to cave in and crash down to the ground level.
Prominent social media users like Yusnaby Perez and Raymer Brown have circulated videos and images of the incident, which left many onlookers shocked as they witnessed the dramatic rescue of those trapped inside and the recovery of a deceased individual's body.
The partial collapse resulted in the tragic death of a worker from Café Boulevard and left several people trapped. The upper floor, which was used as communal housing, had long-standing structural issues exacerbated by recent heavy rains, which added moisture to the already weakened century-old structure.
Local residents have voiced their frustration, pointing out that the building had been declared uninhabitable years ago. However, only superficial repairs were made to the facade while the housing crisis continues to worsen. Resources are predominantly allocated to hotels rather than urgently needed residential housing for the population.
Understanding the Collapse in Central Havana
What caused the building to collapse in Central Havana?
The collapse was primarily caused by severe structural deficiencies that were worsened by recent heavy rains, which added moisture to the already compromised structure.
How many casualties resulted from the collapse?
The tragic incident claimed the life of a Café Boulevard worker and left several others trapped within the building.
What have local residents reported about the building's condition?
Residents have been vocal about the building's long-standing designation as uninhabitable, criticizing that only its facade received superficial repairs despite the deepening housing crisis.