5.1 magnitude earthquake in Peru leaves 5 victims and 16 injured, destroys historic buildings

On Saturday evening, local time, a 5.1 magnitude seismic tremor shook Peru, taking the lives of five people, injuring at least 16 others, and causing severe damage to residential and public infrastructure.

Residents were gripped by panic after the earthquake, whose epicenter was at a depth of 24 kilometers, and rushed out into the streets. Regional authorities and emergency teams immediately mobilized to inspect the affected areas and provide support to citizens.

The force of the shock caused the collapse of a section of a church in the Chongos Bajo area, located south of Chupaca province. Also there, the “Stone Cross,” a religious structure of historical value dating back to 1610, was destroyed.

According to a statement from the Peruvian Ministry of Health, 16 injured were recorded in the Junín region. Of this group, 11 people were hospitalized, three received treatment at the local health center, and two others were given first aid at the scene before leaving.

The General Directorate for Disaster Risk Management is overseeing the situation and coordinating actions with local authorities. Officials stressed that response operations will be continuous until conditions return fully to normal and community safety is guaranteed.