Volunteers conduct search operations in buildings destroyed by an earthquake, in Pereira, Colombia, Aug. 11 (local time). At least 240 people have been killed, 2,595 others were injured, and about 195 are missing after a 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Aug. 10, according to the Colombian Presidency's official report. EPA-Yonhap
BOGOTA — Colombia's earthquake rescue efforts entered what officials called the "final phase" on Wednesday, as rescuers searched for signs of life beneath collapsed buildings before the critical first 72 hours came to an end.
The magnitude 7.4 quake, the strongest to hit Colombia this century, has killed 265 people, injured more than 3,500 and left almost 500 missing, according to local authorities.
In the city of Pereira, crews focused on a collapsed bakery where they believe a street vendor trapped since Monday's earthquake may still be alive beneath the rubble.
Using equipment that detects vibrations, rescuers said they had picked up possible signs of life from Pablo Loaiza, prompting anxious relatives to gather outside the wreckage.
