Omayra Sánchez: A Tragic Legacy

In 1985, the Nevado del Ruiz volcano erupted in Colombia, triggering one of

the deadliest mudslides in history. Entire towns were buried — including Armero.

Rescuers searching through the debris found a 13-year-old girl: Omayra Sánchez.

She was trapped in muddy water, her legs pinned under the ruins of her own home.

They tried everything — pumps, ropes, machinery — but pulling her

out would have broken her legs, and there was no equipment strong enough to lift the

concrete around her. For almost three days, she remained stuck,

talking calmly to reporters, asking about school, and worrying about her family.