Man Who Took ‘World’s Saddest Photograph’ Explains Why He Didn’t Save The Little Girl In The Picture
ArchiveFirst published April 25, 2025. It may not reflect later developments.
In 1985, Colombia’s Nevado del Ruiz eruption killed over 23,000 people. Among the victims was 13-year-old Omayra Sánchez Garzón, trapped neck-deep in debris for 60 hours before dying.
French photojournalist Frank Fournier captured her final moments, creating a haunting image that sparked global outrage. Critics slammed him for photographing instead of helping. Fournier defended his actions, saying: “I felt totally powerless in front of this little girl, who was facing death with courage and dignity.”
Rescue attempts failed due to thick mud and lack of proper equipment. Fournier added, “I felt the only thing I could do was report properly on the courage and the suffering… and hope it would mobilize people.”
Despite backlash, Fournier’s photo won World Press Photo of the Year in 1986 and remains a powerful symbol of the tragedy.
