The collapse of a building near the Ópera district, in the center of the Spanish capital, has caused shock in Madrid.
According to El País, at least four people are missing, while one has been seriously injured and was taken by ambulance to a city hospital. There are also fears for other people who may be in the rubble.
Eleven fire departments are working at the scene, with authorities having cordoned off the entire area. According to initial information, the building was under renovation and appears to have been abandoned for a long time.
Testimonies about the building collapse in Madrid
Witnesses spoke of scenes of chaos and terror. The manager of a store next to the scene of the tragedy told the newspaper that "the entire building collapsed, the street is full of ambulances and police, and they are not allowing us to get close."
Another local resident described feeling a strong tremor before seeing “a huge cloud of dust covering everything.” “The building was old and under construction. I was told it was going to be turned into a hotel,” she added.
El País notes that at least six floors have collapsed.
Rescue operations continue under difficult conditions as firefighters try to secure the stability of surrounding buildings. Authorities have evacuated all residents from the area as a precaution, while police have completely blocked off Hileras Street.
Investigations into the causes of the collapse are ongoing.
Source: iefimerida.gr
