Death Toll Rises To At Least 159 in M6.2 Quake in Central Italy

Amatrice, Italy — At least 159 people have been killed in a magnitude 6.2 earthquake that hit central Italy early Wednesday morning, according to media reports quoting authorities.

The death toll may rise as many people are believed to be trapped under the rubble from collapsed buildings, Italy’s ANSA news agency and other media said.

Prime Minister Matteo Renzi said at least 368 people were injured in the historic town of Amatrice alone, while an official of the city said the central part of the city with many old buildings “is almost totally ruined.” (PNA/Kyodo) FPV/PJN