Professor rescues students from gym that collapsed during storm in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil

Professor Douglas Henrique bravely assisted students in evacuating his gym in the Sumarezinho neighborhood of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, when the structure collapsed during a severe storm early Friday, November 24th. A total of twelve people were inside the establishment, located on Avenida Antônio Helena Zerrener, when the building gave way around 5:20 AM. Fortunately, no one sustained serious injuries despite the extensive damage. Henrique recounted that he was near the exit but returned to help students when he realized the structure was failing. The gym, which had been operating for a year and a half, was reportedly hit by strong winds that lifted part of the roof before the iron framework and entire roof structure buckled and fell. Henrique sustained injuries to his shoulder, causing some difficulty moving his arm, but expressed optimism about his recovery. Students and staff attempted to salvage undamaged equipment after the collapse. Student Crislaine Souza, whose uninsured car was destroyed outside, described the event as terrifying and sudden, emphasizing Henrique's selfless actions in rescuing people. Henrique's car was also damaged by the gym's gate. The storm caused widespread damage throughout Ribeirão Preto, including the collapse of a gas station canopy and a tree falling on another gym, though no injuries were reported in those incidents. The mayor of Ribeirão Preto, Ricardo Silva, has declared a state of emergency.