ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - A seven-story building collapsed in Turkey’s northwestern province of Kocaeli on Wednesday. At least five people have been trapped under the rubble, according to authorities.
Governor Ilhami Aktas told reporters that the collapsed building, located in Gebze city, was built in 2012. He noted that one family was at home at the time of the incident.
“Unfortunately, we assess that they are currently under the rubble. It is estimated that a total of five people, consisting of mother, father, and three children, are under the rubble… Our teams heard the voice of one citizen and are trying to reach them,” he said.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said that 147 search and rescue workers were working to rescue the trapped people.
The local authorities have evacuated nine nearby buildings as a precaution and assessments are underway for more possible evacuations.
The cause of the collapse remains unclear.
"We don't have any concrete findings about how the incident occurred. Work continues. All kinds of technical methods are being used. Necessary explanations will be made after the investigations are completed,” stated the governor.