Deadly Earthquake Causes Apartment Collapse in Bogotá, Trapping Residents

A powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck Colombia late Tuesday morning, causing widespread damage and panic. The epicenter was located roughly 80 kilometers southeast of Bogotá near Villavicencio, but tremors were felt as far as Medellín and Cali.

The quake struck at approximately 10:47 AM local time, shaking the ground for nearly 45 seconds. In Bogotá, a multi-story red-brick apartment complex partially collapsed, leaning precariously onto a nearby building. Debris littered the street below, with snapped steel reinforcements and shattered balconies clearly visible.

Emergency services have confirmed multiple fatalities and dozens of injuries. Many residents are still believed to be trapped beneath the rubble. Search and rescue teams, firefighters, and heavy machinery are on site, working tirelessly amid the dust and destruction.

Images from the scene show a chaotic landscape: cracked walls, dangling air conditioners, and collapsed balconies. Emergency vehicles line the streets as crews coordinate rescue efforts under the threat of further structural failure.

Locals reported feeling violent shaking across much of the country, prompting evacuations from schools, offices, and residential buildings.

Authorities have urged the public to stay clear of damaged areas and allow rescue teams to work without interference.

While the full scale of the disaster is still unfolding, officials warn that aftershocks may follow and that additional buildings could be at risk.

This is a developing story. More updates will follow as information becomes available.