Building Collapses In Beirut, Lebanon; Teen Killed

Published January 15, 2012 6:27PM (EST)

BEIRUT (AP) — Lebanese security officials say an old five-story residential building in Beirut has collapsed. A 15-year-old girl was killed.

At least seven others were injured when the building suddenly disintegrated in Beirut's Ashrafieh district.

The officials said search operations were under way for other victims. They said the number of casualties is likely to rise. They spoke on condition of anonymity in line with regulations.

Building collapses in Lebanon are rare. The officials said it was not clear what led to Sunday's collapse. Possible causes were cracks in the building made worse by heavy rain or the effects of several nearby construction sites.


By Salon Staff

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