US State Department Confirms American Killed in Peruvian Earthquake

The US Department of State has confirmed a death of an American national during an earthquake in Peru on Sunday, the department’s spokesperson Elizabeth Trudeau told reporters on Monday.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — At least nine people were killed by a 5.4-magnitude earthquake in the Arequipa region in southern Peru, the state's governor said Monday. More than 50 people have been injured, according to the latest media reports.

“We are aware that a US citizen was killed during the earthquake. Our condolences do go out to his family and friends,” Trudeau stated in a press briefing.

Trudeau added that Washington is monitoring the situation, and remains in close contact with Peruvian authorities.