Changning Earthquake: Survivors and rescue workers recall harrowing night

World
Europe

Staying on the topic, our reporter Tao Yuan brings us the stories of survivors and rescue workers of the deadly tremor.

Search and rescue efforts are over.

Li Wuyun recalls the harrowing night.

LI WUYUN, RESCUE WORKER CHANGNING DETACHMENT, YIBIN FIRE BRIGADE "This is THE strongest earthquake I've ever experienced first-hand. Of course, we feel a lot of pressure, especially when aftershocks are frequent. We are frightened as well."

This teenage girl was the first person Li and his team saved – 15-year-old Li Yuqin. She was trapped under the debris when her house collapsed.

LI WUYUN, RESCUE WORKER CHANGNING DETACHMENT, YIBIN FIRE BRIGADE "If the aftershocks cause anything else to fall or collapse, this girl's life was going to be in danger."

Yuqin is now at the county hospital being treated for her injuries. She says she had earthquake readiness training at school. But this earthquake hit all too suddenly.

LI YUQIN EARTHQUAKE SURVIVOR "I fell to the ground within seconds. The ceiling fell on my legs and I couldn't move. I couldn't see anything. I heard my mom shouting outside, she said, 'Hang on, mommy's gonna save you.' I answered and answered. But it seemed as though my voice couldn't get through. My mind was crushed."

Yuqin survived but her aunt, uncle and little nephew were among those killed. The boy was only seven years old.

LI WUYUN, RESCUE WORKER CHANGNING DETACHMENT, YIBIN FIRE BRIGADE "My own childhood was filled with love and joy. But the childhood of that little boy stopped yesterday. I do feel a certain amount of guilt, as though I've failed them."

As we spoke, another strong aftershock jolted the county. Li and his teammates are used to it by now. It means their work here is not over. TY, CGTN, Changning, Sichuan Province.