A family was tragically buried alive when a part of a cliff fell on them.
The tragic incident happened in the northeastern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Norte. Officers identified the victims as Hugo Pereira, 32, Stella Souza, 33, and their son Sol Souza, 7 months old.
Beachgoers rushed to help and remove rocks to save the family. They found the mother holding her child in her arms, keeping him safe from the debris.
High tides and waves crashing against the base of the cliff had caused it to erode over time. Authorities posted warning signs of possible landslides.
According to a man who operates a business in the area, the infant was still breathing when they were pulled out from the ruins.
A doctor tried to save the child but he passed away.
A government spokesperson, Fabio Pinheiro, said an inspector advised the victims of potential risks of resting near the cliff moments before the incident.
Stella’s mother, Sanzia Maria, described the parents as a couple “who love each other very much.”
She added: “They were very happy, a very happy family. Hugo was a wonderful man who took good care of Stella and Sol. They were people who only left happiness.”
The family-of-three were laid to rest.
Stella and Hugo lived in Pradia do Amor neighborhood near the beach.
Hugo was a manager at a hotel in Pipa and gained nationwide attention after he shared his travels around the country. Stella was studying psychology and leaves behind another son from a previous relationship.
Last year, Hugo shared a photo of pregnant Stella lying on the beach. He wrote: “I caught the most beautiful mermaid. We planted a little seed and it is germinating. I promise a lot of love.”
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