Google takes blame for Turkey earthquake that ‘killed’ Christian Atsu

Google has admitted its earthquake early warning system failed to accurately alert people about the deadly earthquake that occurred in Turkey two years ago, which led to the sudden demise of Ghanaian footballer Christian Atsu.

In a discussion with the BBC, the American technology company said a million people were sent a lower-level warning, which is designed for “light shaking” and does not alert users in the same prominent way.

Earlier, the Search Engine maker told the BBC that Google’s system, named Android Earthquake Alerts (AEA), run by the Silicon Valley firm, described as the ‘global safety net’, had performed well.

More than 55,000 people died when two major earthquakes hit south-east Turkey on 6 February 2023, and more than 100,000 were injured. Many were asleep in buildings that collapsed around them when the tremors hit.

Google’s early warning system was in place and live on the day of the quakes – however, it underestimated how strong the earthquakes were.

“We continue to improve the system based on what we learn in each earthquake”, a Google spokesperson said.

Footballer Christian Atsu was found dead under the rubble of his home in Antakya, Hatay, almost two weeks after the Turkey earthquake.

His agent Nana Sechere confirmed the news on Saturday on Twitter, wrote: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce to all well-wishers that sadly Christian Atsu’s body was recovered this morning.

“My deepest condolences go to his family and loved ones. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers and support.”

In a social media post confirming the death of the Ghana forward, Christian Atsu’s club, Hatayspor, said, “There are no words to describe our sadness,” adding, “We will not forget you, Atsu. Peace be upon you, beautiful person.”

In the aftermath of the deadly earthquake, Hatayspor initially reported Atsu had been rescued “with injuries”, but a day later, he was pronounced dead.

Atsu began his career with Porto, also spending a season on loan at Rio Ave. In 2013, he was signed by Chelsea for £3.5 million, who subsequently loaned him to Vitesse, Everton, Bournemouth, and Málaga.

After spending the 2016–17 season on loan at Newcastle United, he completed a permanent transfer to the club in May 2017.

Christian Atsu joined Hatayspor in September after a season with Saudi Arabian team Al-Raed and scored the winning goal in a Super Lig match on 5 February.

He won 65 caps for Ghana and helped his country reach the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations final, where they lost to Ivory Coast on penalties. Atsu was later named player of the tournament.