Father creates foundation after surviving earthquake with two-month-old son

On August 21, 2026, the creation of a foundation aimed at supporting children and families following the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia was announced. The initiative arose after the survival of a father and his two-and-a-half-month-old son, who were trapped under the rubble from the collapse of the Torres del Limonar.

The moment of collapse and the struggle under the rubble

The collapse occurred in southern Cali, when the structure gave way while people were trying to evacuate the premises. Juan David Gómez and his two-and-a-half-month-old baby were on the first floor of the building at the moment of impact. According to the account, the two towers of the complex had only a single door for evacuation, a condition that, in the father's view, may have influenced what happened.

After becoming trapped under the remnants of the structure, visibility and communication with the outside were compromised by dust and fallen materials. The father's primary concern was keeping the infant alive, trying to remain calm and repeatedly asking for help while buried.

The rescue and the losses in the tragedy

The rescue took place on August 12, when rescue organizations located the father and baby after detecting signs of life and removing beams and concrete. The baby was found with respiratory difficulties and minor bruises, receiving medical attention on-site. The event occurred during the earthquake that struck on August 10, 2026.

Despite the survival of both, the collapse caused the death of Valentina Vanegas, Gómez's wife and the baby's mother, and Juan Esteban, her brother. Both died after remaining buried.

The creation of the foundation in honor and solidarity

To cope with the situation and honor Valentina's memory, the creation of the foundation bearing the minor's full name was announced. The proposal was born out of the solidarity received during the rescue efforts and seeks to transfer that support to other people affected by the emergency.

The initiative is already seeking children who can receive help in the name of the baby, the mother, and the father himself. For the family, this action has helped them navigate the pain of loss in a more peaceful way, also serving to thank the community for the support received after the tragedy.

With information from El Colombiano.