Rescue Efforts Intensify After Hotel Collapse in Argentina

Rescue operations continue in Villa Gesell, Argentina, following the collapse of the 10-storey Dubrovnik hotel, with one confirmed fatality and several others missing.

Rescue workers in Argentina are urgently working to locate and assist individuals trapped beneath the rubble of the Dubrovnik hotel, which collapsed in the coastal city of Villa Gesell early Tuesday morning. The tragic event has so far resulted in one confirmed death—a man in his 80s—and one woman has been rescued from the debris. Witnesses described the chaos as akin to a "horror movie," with scenes of destruction overwhelming the area.

The hotel, which was undergoing renovations, was reported to have had its construction work halted in August due to a lack of proper permits, yet locals claim that work continued regardless of the municipality's suspension order. Monica Mino, a neighbor, described the moment of collapse as explosive, stating, "We heard like an earthquake... this was terrible."

In response to the emergency, Argentina's national security minister, Patricia Bullrich, announced the deployment of specialized rescue teams, including structural engineers and rescue specialists equipped with advanced machinery. The province's security minister, Javier Alonso, informed local media that four construction workers who were on-site at the time managed to escape but were subsequently detained by authorities.

Initial reports suggest the collapse may have been due to ongoing repairs possibly taking place in the hotel's basement, leading to a catastrophic failure of the structure. Images emerging from the disaster scene reveal extensive damage to nearby buildings caused by falling debris.

Known for its beautiful beaches and resorts, Villa Gesell is a favored coastal destination in Argentina, and the Dubrovnik hotel is situated conveniently close to the seafront, adjacent to other lodging establishments. The community now faces the painful task of dealing with the aftermath of this devastating incident. Rescue operations continue as team efforts focus on uncovering any remaining survivors amidst the wreckage.