A tragic building collapse at a construction site in George has claimed several lives, with ongoing rescue efforts to locate and assist dozens still unaccounted for.
UPDATE: Since this article was published, the death toll has risen to 33, with 19 victims unaccounted for as of Thursday, 16 May 2024. Read the original story below.
George building collapse: What’s the latest death toll?
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As of 05:15 on Tuesday, 7 May 2024, George Municipality confirmed that four individuals have died due to the collapse.
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Twenty-four people have been rescued from the rubble, but 51 remain missing. The rescue teams have categorised the condition of the rescued patients as follows:
- 10 in critical condition (red);
- 3 in serious but stable condition (yellow);
- 7 with minor injuries (green); and
- 4 deceased (blue).
Seventy-five construction workers were reported to be at the site at the time of the incident. Rescue operations are being conducted by three teams, each focusing on different areas of the collapsed structure.
George traffic: Road closures to take note of on Friday, 10 May 2024
Due to the ongoing rescue operations, Victoria Street is closed to both pedestrian and vehicular traffic at the York Street intersection and midway down the street.
This closure includes the Victoria Street gate to the George Municipal Building. The public is requested to avoid the area to ensure emergency vehicles and personnel can access the site unimpeded.
Access to the municipal building is available via the Progress Street gate. Further updates on road closures and access will be provided as the situation develops.
George building collapse: How to make donations
The community has shown tremendous support following the collapse, with many volunteering their time and resources to assist the rescue operations.
Dr Gratz, the Municipal Manager, expressed gratitude towards the organisations and individuals providing aid.
For those wishing to contribute, donations of drinking water, Lucozade, wine gums, or any food can be delivered to the tent site managed by Gift of the Givers and Herman Pienaar of LoveGeorge, located at 79 Victoria St, Delplan Consulting.
These donations will support the emergency services personnel currently working tirelessly at the site.
