Prosecutors claim the late Diego Maradona's death could have been avoided, with key medical personnel on trial for alleged negligence.
Trial of Medical Team Begins Over Maradona's Death Amid Allegations of Negligence
Trial of Medical Team Begins Over Maradona's Death Amid Allegations of Negligence
Medical staff face charges as Argentine football icon's legacy is scrutinized.
The highly anticipated trial of medical personnel involved in the care of legendary Argentine footballer Diego Maradona has commenced in Buenos Aires, bringing to light the circumstances surrounding his death. Maradona passed away from a heart attack in November 2020, at the age of 60, while recuperating at home following surgery for a brain blood clot earlier that month.
Prosecutors argue that Maradona's death was preventable and have charged the medical staff with negligence. The defendants contend that Maradona declined further treatment and should have remained hospitalized longer post-operation. If found guilty of "homicide with possible intent," the accused could face prison sentences ranging from eight to 25 years.
In the opening arguments, prosecutor Patricio Ferrari emphasized the prosecution's commitment to presenting "solid" evidence that no member of the medical team fulfilled their responsibilities during Maradona's final hours, which he described as a "horror theatre." He expressed that Maradona's family and the Argentine populace deserve justice.
The investigation has classified the case as culpable homicide, akin to involuntary manslaughter, due to the alleged awareness of the defendants regarding the acute seriousness of Maradona's health condition without appropriate intervention.
The defendants include a neurosurgeon, psychiatrist, psychologist, medical coordinator, nursing coordinator, doctor, and the night nurse. The night nurse, in a previous statement, indicated he had observed "warning signs," but was instructed not to disturb Maradona.
The trial is anticipated to draw significant public attention, with more than 100 witnesses expected to testify before its conclusion in July. Outside the courthouse, fans displayed banners, including one reading "Justice for God," reflecting Maradona's immense influence and the deep-seated affection held for him by supporters.
Widely recognized as one of football's greatest players, Maradona's career was marked by both extraordinary talent and personal struggles, including battles with substance abuse. His death in 2020 led to an outpouring of grief from the global football community and fans, many of whom revered him as a national icon in Argentina.
Prosecutors argue that Maradona's death was preventable and have charged the medical staff with negligence. The defendants contend that Maradona declined further treatment and should have remained hospitalized longer post-operation. If found guilty of "homicide with possible intent," the accused could face prison sentences ranging from eight to 25 years.
In the opening arguments, prosecutor Patricio Ferrari emphasized the prosecution's commitment to presenting "solid" evidence that no member of the medical team fulfilled their responsibilities during Maradona's final hours, which he described as a "horror theatre." He expressed that Maradona's family and the Argentine populace deserve justice.
The investigation has classified the case as culpable homicide, akin to involuntary manslaughter, due to the alleged awareness of the defendants regarding the acute seriousness of Maradona's health condition without appropriate intervention.
The defendants include a neurosurgeon, psychiatrist, psychologist, medical coordinator, nursing coordinator, doctor, and the night nurse. The night nurse, in a previous statement, indicated he had observed "warning signs," but was instructed not to disturb Maradona.
The trial is anticipated to draw significant public attention, with more than 100 witnesses expected to testify before its conclusion in July. Outside the courthouse, fans displayed banners, including one reading "Justice for God," reflecting Maradona's immense influence and the deep-seated affection held for him by supporters.
Widely recognized as one of football's greatest players, Maradona's career was marked by both extraordinary talent and personal struggles, including battles with substance abuse. His death in 2020 led to an outpouring of grief from the global football community and fans, many of whom revered him as a national icon in Argentina.
