New Jersey mother dies saving daughter in Colombia earthquake

A New Jersey mother, Magnolia Garcia Lugo, died while attempting to save her daughter during a powerful earthquake in Colombia. According to family and leaders from the Mercy Church of God, Garcia Lugo initially escaped her collapsing home but re-entered the structure to reach her daughter, Natalia. She was subsequently killed when a wall fell on her.

Garcia Lugo’s brother, a pastor in Colombia, assisted in the search for her following the collapse. The family has been active members of the Mercy Church of God congregation for decades. Bergenfield Mayor Arvin Amatorio stated that borough officials are prepared to assist the family as they mourn the loss. Funeral services for Garcia Lugo were scheduled to take place in Colombia.