Church Roof Collapses During Sunday Mass, Killing 9 and Injuring Dozens in Mexico
A tragic incident unfolded during Sunday Mass in Ciudad Madero, Mexico, when the roof of a church collapsed, resulting in the deaths of nine people and leaving dozens injured. The devastating incident occurred at the Santa Cruz church as parishioners were receiving communion. As the roof gave way, approximately 30 individuals were trapped under the rubble. Rescue workers immediately launched a search and rescue operation, employing dogs to aid in locating survivors.
Reports indicate that there were around 100 people inside the church at the time of the collapse. Although authorities are still investigating the cause of the incident, initial assessments suggest that a structural failure was to blame. The Tamaulipas state police, along with units from the National Guard, state civil defense office, and the Red Cross, are actively involved in the ongoing rescue efforts.
In response to the tragedy, the Mexican Council of Bishops released a statement expressing their sorrow and offering prayers for the victims and their families. Bishop José Armando Alvarez of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tampico, who was present during the incident, revealed that efforts to extract survivors from the rubble are underway. The diocese has called for donations of wood to help stabilize the damaged structure while rescue operations continue.
Photographs capturing the aftermath of the collapse show a concrete and brick structure with portions of the roof scattered on the ground. Surveillance footage from nearby revealed the roof collapsing downward, seemingly due to a structural failure. There is no evidence of an explosion or external event causing the collapse. It is worth noting that the roof appeared to be made of relatively thin poured concrete, raising the possibility of air pockets where survivors could be located.
As search and rescue teams continue their painstaking work, the diocese expressed gratitude for the successful extractions thus far, stating, From underneath the rubble, thanks to Divine Providence and the work of the rescue teams, people have been pulled out alive! Let’s keep praying!
The search and rescue operation faces challenges, as the danger of falling debris prevents the use of cranes to lift sections of the collapsed roof. Instead, rescuers are resorting to manual efforts, utilizing wooden props and hydraulic jacks to reach individuals trapped beneath the rubble. Specially trained dogs are also being deployed to aid in the detection of survivors. Additionally, rescue teams are employing a method used during earthquakes, shouting and listening for signs of response from potential survivors.
Although building collapses in Mexico often occur during earthquakes, the National Seismological Service reported no seismic activity in the region capable of causing such damage at that time. Authorities are working diligently to investigate the cause thoroughly. Ciudad Madero, located in the state of Tamaulipas, has experienced less drug cartel violence compared to other regions in the state.
As the search for survivors continues, the thoughts and prayers of many are with the victims and their families during this heart-wrenching tragedy.
