Colombian authorities confirmed the number of dead from a building collapse in the northern department of Santander had risen to at least eight, reported El Espectador Friday.
After initial reports of five deaths following the collapse of the 21-storey building in the city of Bucaramanga, rescue crews have now confirmed at least eight bodies have been recovered, with work ongoing.
An investigation into the incident is also ongoing, but it is believed heavy machinery used in the area destabilized the foundations of the building.
Acting mayor of Bucaramanga Mauricio Mejia Abello confirmed the building had been inspected days before the tragedy because it was believed construction work in the area was “having an impact on surrounding roads.”