Turkey Mining Accident Kills 232, More Trapped Inside Likely Dead

Carrie Dedrick | Updated: May 14, 2014

Turkey Mining Accident Kills 232, More Trapped Inside Likely Dead

A devastating mine fire in Turkey has killed 232 workers reports CNN. Authorities say there are about 200 more people still trapped about two-thirds of a mile underground; it is unlikely that there will be any survivors.

The mine, located in the town of Soma, caught fire when a transformer blew. There were more workers inside than usual due to a shift change, 787 in total. 363 have been located, many injured from burns.

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said, “God will offer urgent remedy and care” for injured persons.” He has declared that the country will enter in three days of mourning for the losses.

Rescues were impaired by the fire that was still burning. Oxygen was pumped into the mine in hopes that trapped miners would not suffocate from smoke inhalation.

Search and rescue official Taner Yildiz said, “Our hopes are diminishing.”

The mining accident is reported as the worst in Turkey’s history.

 

Publication date: May 14, 2014



Turkey Mining Accident Kills 232, More Trapped Inside Likely Dead