Roof Collapse at Ciudad Madero Church: 100 Injured, 30 Trapped
In a distressing incident, a church in Ciudad Madero, Mexico, experienced a roof collapse during a Sunday Mass, leaving approximately 100 individuals injured and about 30, including children, trapped within the rubble.
The affected church, known as Santa Cruz, is situated in northern Mexico. The tragic incident unfolded while the congregation was partaking in communion. Bishop José Armando Alvarez of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tampico, as reported by the Associated Press, explained that the roof gave way during this religious service, held in Ciudad Madero, adjacent to the port city of Tampico.
Swift Response and Ongoing Rescue Efforts
In the wake of this devastating incident, the National Guard, state police, state civil defense teams, and the Red Cross swiftly arrived at the scene, under the coordination of the Tamaulipas state police. Their primary mission was to locate and assist any victims trapped under the debris.
Photographs shared by local media reveal a concrete and brick structure with sections of the roof collapsed onto the ground.
Approximately 100 people were present in the church when the roof caved in, with approximately 30 individuals still trapped inside. As of now, the extent of casualties remains uncertain.
In a recorded message, Bishop Alvarez stated, “At this time, the necessary work is being performed to extract the people who are still under the rubble. Today we are living through a very difficult moment.”
Location and Distance
Notably, Ciudad Madero is situated approximately 310 miles (500 kilometers) south of Brownsville, Texas.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Our thoughts are with the affected individuals and their families during this challenging time.