Seven-Story Building Collapses in Turkey, Rescue Efforts Underway

A seven-story apartment building in the northwestern Turkish city of Gebze collapsed early on the morning of October 18, 2023. The incident trapped five people, all members of the same family, under the rubble. As of now, officials have not confirmed any casualties, and rescue operations are actively underway.

Governor İlhami Aktas provided updates to reporters, confirming that the trapped individuals are family members. Teams from the Disaster and Emergency Management Directorate (AFAD) are on-site, working diligently to locate and rescue those beneath the debris. The situation remains fluid, with emergency responders focused on ensuring the safety of the trapped individuals.

Local media reports from the state-run Anadolu Agency indicate that the cause of the building’s collapse is still undetermined. Zinnur Büyükgöz, the Mayor of Gebze, speculated that the collapse might be linked to construction activities for a nearby metro line. This incident raises concerns about the structural integrity of buildings in the area, particularly given Gebze’s location along the North Anatolian fault line.

Gebze has a history of seismic activity, having been significantly affected by the devastating 1999 earthquake, which measured 7.6 in magnitude and resulted in the loss of approximately 18,000 lives. The region’s vulnerability to earthquakes underscores the urgency of thorough investigations into structural safety and construction practices.

As rescue teams continue their efforts, the community remains hopeful for a swift resolution. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as information becomes available, including details on the rescue operations and any potential links to ongoing construction projects.