At least three dead after rock formation collapse at popular Turkish tourist destination - The Independent

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At least three people died and five were injured when part of a large volcanic rock formation collapsed in Cappadocia, the popular Turkish tourism region, on Thursday, officials said.

The rock that came down was a section of a formation known as a fairy chimney, in Cappadocia's Goreme region. Medical and rescue teams were deployed to the site after the collapse.

Governor Huseyin Kok said the collapse occurred near a parking lot at an entrance to the site and claimed recent heavy rains likely caused it.

Rescue teams were continuing to search for other people who may be trapped under the debris, the governor confirmed.

“We hope that there are no other casualties,” the governor said. “We are deeply saddened.”

Two of the three dead were Turkish nationals, Kok said. He did not provide information on the third victim.

Justice Minister Akin Gurlek said an investigation was launched into the incident, while heavy machinery was shown removing chunks of rock from the foot of the formation by HaberTurk news channel.

Cappadocia is in central Turkey and is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site.

It is famed for its distinctive rock formations and ancient underground cities, and is one of the country's most visited tourism locations.

Thursday was Turkey's Republic Day holiday, when the area would have been crowded with visitors.