Actress Yorgelys Delgado and her mother, Gladys Escalona de Delgado, were found dead under the rubble of the Coral Beach building in La Guaira, according to a July 3 announcement by musician René Velasco on Instagram. Both women perished following earthquakes that struck the region on June 24.
Why did the search for Yorgelys Delgado take eight days?
The recovery effort faced significant structural obstacles. Alex Velero reported that rescuers urgently required “electric hammers” because the building contained thick concrete slabs that could not be broken using standard picks. Despite these challenges, search teams worked for eight days to locate the actress and her mother.
Who is confirming the deaths of the actress and her mother?
The news was formalized through a statement shared by René Velasco. The announcement explicitly names the deceased as Gladys Escalona de Delgado and Yorgelys Delgado. The family—including Jorgelina Delgado, Miranda Mijares, Yohangellis Delgado, and Jhonson Mijares—expressed gratitude for the prayers and support received during the period of “anguish and hope” while the two women remained missing.
The Impact of the June 24 Earthquakes
The tragedy occurred at the Coral Beach building, the residence of the victims. This event highlights the vulnerability of coastal infrastructure in La Guaira when faced with seismic activity. While the search continued for over a week, the eventual discovery of the bodies confirms the lethal impact of the structural collapse.
What happens next for the family and community?
The family has requested respect and privacy as they grieve. The statement describes the loss as “heartbreaking” but emphasizes the love and gratitude for the lives and stories the two women left behind. The transition from a rescue mission to a recovery operation underscores the grim reality of the June 24 tremors.
Comparing Rescue Efforts and Equipment
The disparity between the tools available and the tools needed was a critical point in this case. According to Alex Velero, the inability to “pick” through thick slabs without an electric hammer delayed the process. This contrast between manual labor and mechanized demolition is a recurring theme in urban search and rescue (USAR) operations globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the collapse happen?
The collapse occurred at the Coral Beach building in La Guaira.
When did the earthquakes occur?
The seismic events took place on June 24.
Who announced the deaths?
Musician René Velasco announced the deaths via Instagram on July 3.
How long were Yorgelys Delgado and her mother missing?
They remained missing for eight days before being found under the rubble.
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