LANDSLIDE KILLS FATHER AND TWO SONS IN THEIR CAVE HOUSE.

The tragedy occurred around 0830hrs. on Friday in which a 52 year old father and two sons of 21 and 25 were killed.

After approximately 8 hours of frantic digging through fallen rocks and clay by the rescuers a 48 year old mother and one son were pulled out alive. Rescuers discovered a small gap and the two survivors were alive on the other side.

From a neighbouring home a 25 yea rold man was also pulled out alive. He was suffering from multiple fractures.

From another house a 70 year old woman was rescued alive. No details as to her condition so far reported.

The mother was admitted to hospital and believed to be in intensive care with her prognosis as good. The son believed to have been injured admitted as well.

The first body of one of the sons was removed from the most severely damaged house at about 2330 hrs. followed shortly afterwards by the second son. It was not until two hours later that the father's body was recovered.

The mayor of Huercal - Overa was full of praise for the efforts of the rescuers who had toiled against appalling odds and in grave danger in an effort to save the trapped men. He declared an official three days of mourning.

Other families escaped and were lucky to do so. Their homes were wrecked and they have had to be re-housed with relatives.

An investigation into this sudden landslide will be conducted as to the cause. It seems it happened without any prior warning signs or sounds.