Recent research suggests powerful earthquakes contributed to fatalities during the 79 AD eruption of Mount Vesuvius in Pompeii.

Skeletons found in a villa reveal the disaster's impact on different social classes, highlighting the dynamics between a wealthy man and a slave.

Bone fractures on two male skeletons indicate they were crushed by collapsing buildings during the earthquake preceding the eruption.

Pliny the Younger's historical account supports the presence of chaos and tremors experienced by Pompeii's residents.

These findings underscore the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving archaeologists and earth scientists to understand the interplay of volcanic and seismic activity in ancient disasters.

Ongoing research continues to provide valuable insights into Pompeii's tragic end and the challenges faced by its inhabitants.