Four killed in Cariacica construction collapse after illegal excavation

A construction site in the Nova Rosa da Penha II neighborhood of Cariacica, Espírito Santo, Brazil, collapsed on 31 March, burying four people. The victims were three members of the Moreira family—Ronival Moreira de Jesus, his son Ruan Moreira da Luz, and their uncle Valdomiro Moreira de Jesus—and businessman Vanderson Santana, owner of a local beverage distributor.

Investigations revealed that the excavation was performed with a near‑vertical 90‑degree cut, violating safety standards. The Regional Council of Engineering and Agronomy of Espírito Santo (Crea‑ES) reported the absence of a responsible technical professional and noted that the work had been embargoed by Cariacica’s Civil Defense about a year earlier. Municipal authorities said there was no failure in oversight, while police probe why the construction resumed despite the embargo.

The incident highlights concerns over illegal construction practices, lack of technical supervision, and enforcement of safety regulations.