Death toll in Rio collapse now 17

RIO DE JANEIRO, Jan. 28 (UPI) -- Rescue efforts in the rubble of three collapsed buildings in Rio de Janeiro will continue for one more day, Brazilian officials said Saturday.

Government news agencies said two bodies were found Saturday morning, bringing the death toll to 17, CNN reported. A 20-story office building collapsed Wednesday night, bringing down the 10- and four-story buildings next to it.

Col. Sergio Simoes, the secretary of civil defense and fire brigade commander, said it is unlikely anyone else will be found alive, Agencia Brasil said.

"Although the culture of the fire department is driven by hope, motivation, given the scenario that we're checking, and time passed since the accident, I must say that we do not work with the possibility of more survivors," he said.

Firefighters have been hampered by dust clouds hanging over the site. Simoes said he is also concerned falling concrete might injure or kill emergency workers.

The cause of the collapse is still under investigation.