02/07/2026 21:11 - Internacionales
The story of Hernán Gil has become a powerful symbol of hope for Venezuela. This 43-year-old security guard was rescued on July 2, 2026 after spending nearly eight days trapped under the rubble of a building in Catia La Mar, located in the coastal state of La Guaira, just north of the capital city of Caracas.
On June 24, 2026, two massive earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude struck Venezuela, leaving a trail of destruction. Hernán Gil was working his shift as a security guard in a seven-story building. When the quake hit, the intense movement shifted his security booth, which remarkably ended up protected between the building's structural walls.
His wife, Gusbimar González, explained to the AFP news agency that the key to his survival was taking shelter under a desk and a chair. Thanks to this quick thinking, Gil suffered no trauma or severe injuries. 'It is a true miracle,' his wife declared emotionally, sharing the joy with their 10-year-old son.
Hernán Gil's rescue required a massive international deployment. Rescue teams from seven countries, including the United States, Chile, Costa Rica, and El Salvador, worked tirelessly day and night to bring him out alive.
According to a report by Infobae, the teams managed to establish contact with him on Sunday. From that moment, they implemented a complex plan, supplying him with 10.5 liters of water and oxygen through hoses to keep him hydrated and breathing.
Cristian Vera, leader of the USAR team from the Chilean Fire Department, described the structural difficulties. Finally, two rescuers dug a three-meter-long tunnel to reach him, shoring up the building's foundations with wood and iron to prevent further collapses. On Thursday, July 2, 2026, Gil emerged into the light safe and sound, greeted by applause and warm embraces.
Hernán Gil's rescue comes during a time of deep mourning for Venezuela. The official toll from the June 24 earthquakes, as of July 2, 2026, stands at 2,295 deaths and 11,267 injuries, with an estimated 40,000 to 70,000 people missing. The La Guaira region was one of the hardest hit, with hundreds of buildings damaged.
Despite the magnitude of the tragedy, Gil's survival is a powerful reminder of human resilience and the value of joint international cooperation. 'It is the first time I have seen so many countries unite for a single cause, which is saving a person,' highlighted Gusbimar González, perfectly summarizing the spirit of solidarity that shone brightly in the midst of darkness.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
