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The cramped chamber measured only a few feet in height and width.
There was barely enough room to move.
Before sealing the lid, the kidnappers placed a few supplies inside.
A jug of water.
A small fan.
A flashlight.
A blanket.
And a thin air pipe extending to the surface.
Then they closed the lid.
And buried her underground.
As the sounds of shovels faded above her, Barbara realized the horrifying truth.
She was alive.
But she was trapped beneath the earth.
The Longest Hours of Her Life
Alone in total darkness, Barbara struggled to stay calm.
Every sound became terrifying.
Every vibration felt ominous.
She had no way of knowing whether anyone would find her.
No way of knowing whether the air system would continue working.
No way of knowing whether the kidnappers would return.
Or whether she would die beneath the soil.
The tiny chamber quickly became hot and humid.
Condensation formed on the walls.