Disaster in Turkey: Building Collapses, 6-Year-Old Boy Trapped Under Rubble

A seven-story building partially collapsed in Istanbul, five people were rescued, at least seven are trapped including a 6-year-old boy. Rescue teams are contending with fears of further collapse.

A seven-story building partially collapsed this morning (Thursday) in Istanbul, the capital of Turkey, in an incident that left at least seven people trapped, including a 6-year-old boy. The collapse occurred in the Maltepe district on the Asian side of the city. Large rescue teams were dispatched to the scene. So far, five people have been rescued, but efforts to reach the remaining seven trapped individuals continue. Istanbul Governor Davut Gül confirmed that contact has been made with the trapped 6-year-old boy, but rescue teams are struggling to reach him due to his location and are attempting an alternative approach. The fear of further collapse of the building is hampering rescue operations and endangering the teams. Nearby buildings have been evacuated as a result of the danger. The circumstances of the collapse are not yet known, and an investigation has been opened. Istanbul and other areas in Turkey are undergoing an urban renewal program to replace old and dilapidated buildings.