Colombia: Several killed after large earthquake rocks region

Early Monday morning, a powerful earthquake struck western Colombia, leaving at least 111 people dead and 87 injured, according to President Abelardo de la Espriella. The epicenter of the 7.4 magnitude quake was located on the eastern tip of the Choco province on Colombia's Pacific coast. Rescue teams scrambled to free trapped residents after buildings collapsed in Cali and other cities, with at least 20 structures in the city reportedly collapsing.

The government declared a state of emergency as of 12:30 local time. Colombian President de la Espriella personally took charge of the government's response, prioritizing locating anyone still trapped. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen offered support, and the US State Department said they are closely monitoring the situation and ready to assist.

The mayor of Cali reported at least 20 buildings collapsed with people trapped inside, while officials in Risaralda said 40 people died across the state. The quake's aftershock, at magnitude 5.0, struck under an hour later.