A 57-year-old mother from Bergenfield, New Jersey, tragically lost her life while attempting to rescue her daughter following a devastating earthquake in Colombia earlier this week. Magnolia Garcia Lugo was staying in the country with her three children when the disaster struck, resulting in her untimely death and a serious injury to her daughter, Natalia.
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The earthquake, which registered a magnitude of 7.4, occurred on Monday, 10 August, and has been reported as the deadliest earthquake to hit Colombia since 1999. According to local news sources, the quake’s epicentre was situated approximately 250 miles west of Bogotá in the region of western Colombia, where the impacts of the tremor were particularly severe.
During the earthquake, Magnolia was able to escape the collapsing structure where they were staying but made the brave decision to return inside to rescue her daughter. Reports indicate that as Magnolia tried to save Natalia, a wall fell, leading to her tragic death. Natalia, who is a recent graduate of Bergenfield High School, sustained an arm injury and is currently receiving medical treatment in hospital.
The heartbreaking details surrounding Magnolia’s death were shared by borough mayor Arvin Amatorio through a statement on social media. In his post, he expressed condolences and noted that the family was on a visit to Colombia when the earthquake struck. He also disclosed that Magnolia’s husband, who did not accompany them on the trip, is en route to Colombia to be with his family during this tragic time.
Locally, the aftermath of the earthquake has been devastating, with recent reports indicating at least 281 fatalities. In addition, over 3,900 individuals have sustained injuries, and hundreds remain unaccounted for. In response to the disaster, the Colombian government has declared a national emergency and initiated extensive search and rescue operations across the most affected areas.
Magnolia’s death has not only impacted her family but also her community in New Jersey. Oscar Fernando Castro, an assistant pastor at the Mercy Church of God, where Magnolia was a devoted member, shared that her brother, who is a pastor in Colombia, played a part in the search efforts following the earthquake. “He called me to inform about the collapse of the house and mentioned that his sister was still inside,” Castro said. “Sadly, when they located her, it was too late.”
Ana Castro, another member of the church, highlighted Magnolia’s significant contributions and presence within their community. Having been an active member for over two decades, her involvement alongside her daughters has been deeply felt within the church, with many expressing their sorrow at the loss. “She has been a stalwart member of our church for 22 years,” she remarked. “Her absence is felt profoundly.”
Reports in local media, including El Tiempo and El Nuevo Siglo, have detailed the ongoing relief efforts and struggles faced by those affected in Roldanillo, where Magnolia lost her life. The community is now rallying to support those who have lost loved ones and homes, as search and rescue teams continue their work in the areas hardest hit by the quake.
As the disaster unfolds, it serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the bravery of those who prioritise the safety of their loved ones in times of peril. Magnolia Garcia Lugo is remembered as a loving mother who made the ultimate sacrifice for her child, leaving a lasting legacy of courage and love.