Omayra Sánchez’s story gained global attention through a haunting photo taken by French journalist Frank Fournier. Her eyes, bloodshot to the point of appearing black, became a symbol of the disaster. “She faced death with courage and dignity,” Fournier said.
Critics asked why he didn’t help her. He told the BBC, “Rescuing Omayra was impossible.” Still, the photo raised awareness and global aid. “There was an outcry—debates on television… But I felt the story was important,” he said.
Fournier also blamed the government’s lack of preparedness: “There were no evacuation plans, yet scientists had foreseen the catastrophic extent of the volcano’s eruption.”
Even today, the image of Omayra continues to disturb and move people. “I was lucky that I could act as a bridge to link people with her,” Fournier said. “It’s the magic of the thing.”
