Colombia enters 'final phase' of quake search as toll clears 265

The magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck Colombia this century has left 265 people dead, more than 3,500 injured, and nearly 500 missing, according to local authorities. Rescue efforts intensified in the critical 72-hour window following the quake, as survivors in cities like Cali and Pereira were believed to be most likely to be found alive.

Cali resident Martha Pérez expressed her helplessness as two relatives were presumed trapped under debris. The newly installed President Abelardo de la Espriella declared the disaster an economic emergency and announced three days of national mourning. Over 11,000 dwellings have been destroyed, causing thousands of families to become homeless.

In Pereira, rescuers focused on a bakery where a street vendor trapped since Monday may still be alive. A 16-year-old niece reported her uncle could respond to knocks, bringing hope. Three people have been pulled out alive, and three dead, in the rescue operations thus far. Many have spent consecutive nights outdoors, fearing aftershocks.

Colombia received emergency aid from the United States and the European Union, with the government denying it rejected offers of assistance on ideological grounds. It vowed to emerge as a united country and society, accepting support from qualified rescue teams like those from Mexico and El Salvador.