A devastating incident unfolded in Villa Gessell, Argentina, as a 10-story hotel, the Dubrovnik, tragically collapsed early on Tuesday morning. The city, located approximately 230 miles from Buenos Aires on the Atlantic coast, was shaken by the sudden disaster.
According to municipal authorities, the collapse has resulted in the death of an 80-year-old man who resided in a neighboring building. Efforts are underway by firefighters, paramedics, and police to clear debris and locate individuals believed to be trapped beneath the rubble.
While the victim's partner was successfully rescued, there is uncertainty surrounding the whereabouts of the couple's son, who may have been present at the site during the collapse.
Among the missing are workers from a construction site within the hotel premises. Reports suggest that the construction was being carried out without proper adherence to municipal regulations, operating clandestinely. Authorities have indicated that the hotel was undergoing renovations and modifications at the time of the incident.
Notably, the municipality had previously intervened in August, halting work at the site due to the lack of necessary permissions. Efforts are now being made to contact those responsible for the building to gather more information regarding the tragic event.
The Dubrovnik hotel, established in 1986, has been a prominent fixture in the area. The community is reeling from the impact of this catastrophe, as emergency responders continue their search and rescue operations amidst the debris.