HAVANA, May 9 (NNN-AGENCIES) — The death toll from an explosion at a luxury hotel in Havana’s old quarter rose to 31 on Sunday, authorities said, as Cuban firefighters continued to comb through the rubble.
Twenty-four people were being treated in hospital, said the public health ministry, after the powerful blast Friday thought to have been caused by a gas leak. The previous death toll was 30.
Crews keep looking for victims and “until they are found I do not think there will be an end” to the rescue operation, said Alexis Acosta, the mayor of Havana’s old quarter.
The Ministry of Public Health reported that there are also 84 injuries, with 19 adults and five children remaining hospitalized.
Rescuers continue to search for survivors and bodies at the hotel, which was seriously damaged when a tanker truck loaded with some 10,000 liters of liquid gas exploded on Friday afternoon.
Located opposite Cuba’s National Capitol building, the five-star hotel was preparing to reopen on Tuesday as part of the country’s bid to revive tourism. — NNN-AGENCIES
