The epicenter of the earthquake was on the northern edge of the Bartlett Deep, approximately thirty miles from Santiago.

[3] A study conducted by professor Stephen Taber, who had been in Santiago during the earthquake, found new faults had formed prior to 3 February.

However, it did not raise significant alarm as such occurrences were common, the city notable for having high seismic activity in the West Indies.

[4][5] There were reports of 8-12 fatalities, and approximately 300 people sustained injuries[5][4] from the collapse of various structures, including hospitals, schools, and industrial facilities.

Because of the damage and foundational instability of Santiago’s prisons, the inmates were transferred to nearby military barracks.