Prosecutors claim medical negligence led to the heart attack that took Maradona's life in 2020.
Trial of Maradona's Medical Team Begins Amid Accusations of Negligence
Trial of Maradona's Medical Team Begins Amid Accusations of Negligence
Trial commences for those accused in the death of iconic football star Diego Maradona.
The high-profile trial regarding the medical team responsible for the care of Argentine football legend Diego Maradona has officially commenced in Buenos Aires. Maradona, who passed away from a heart attack at the age of 60 while recuperating at home, had recently undergone surgery for a brain blood clot just weeks prior.
Prosecutors allege that Maradona's passing was preventable and that the medical staff displayed negligence. The defendants, who face potential prison sentences ranging from 8 to 25 years for charges of "homicide with possible intent," argue that Maradona declined additional treatment and should have remained hospitalized longer.
In an impactful opening statement, prosecutor Patricio Ferrari conveyed the intention to present "strong" evidence indicating that the medical team failed in their responsibilities during what he described as the "horror theatre" of Maradona's death. "Today, Diego Armando Maradona, his children, his relatives, those close to him, and the Argentine populace, deserve justice," he emphasized.
The investigation has classified the case as culpable homicide, akin to involuntary manslaughter, citing the defendants' awareness of Maradona's dire health status yet their inaction to intervene. Those on trial include a neurosurgeon, psychiatrist, psychologist, medical co-ordinator, nursing co-ordinator, doctor, and the night nurse.
The night nurse had previously noted observing "warning signs," yet was instructed "not to wake" Maradona. With over 100 witnesses slated to testify, the trial's proceedings are anticipated to extend through July.
Maradona, revered as one of the greatest footballers in history, famously captained Argentina to World Cup victory in 1986, remembered for his legendary "Hand of God" goal. His death on November 25, 2020, sent shockwaves through the football community, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans who lined up in huge numbers to pay their respects at Buenos Aires' presidential palace.
Prosecutors allege that Maradona's passing was preventable and that the medical staff displayed negligence. The defendants, who face potential prison sentences ranging from 8 to 25 years for charges of "homicide with possible intent," argue that Maradona declined additional treatment and should have remained hospitalized longer.
In an impactful opening statement, prosecutor Patricio Ferrari conveyed the intention to present "strong" evidence indicating that the medical team failed in their responsibilities during what he described as the "horror theatre" of Maradona's death. "Today, Diego Armando Maradona, his children, his relatives, those close to him, and the Argentine populace, deserve justice," he emphasized.
The investigation has classified the case as culpable homicide, akin to involuntary manslaughter, citing the defendants' awareness of Maradona's dire health status yet their inaction to intervene. Those on trial include a neurosurgeon, psychiatrist, psychologist, medical co-ordinator, nursing co-ordinator, doctor, and the night nurse.
The night nurse had previously noted observing "warning signs," yet was instructed "not to wake" Maradona. With over 100 witnesses slated to testify, the trial's proceedings are anticipated to extend through July.
Maradona, revered as one of the greatest footballers in history, famously captained Argentina to World Cup victory in 1986, remembered for his legendary "Hand of God" goal. His death on November 25, 2020, sent shockwaves through the football community, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans who lined up in huge numbers to pay their respects at Buenos Aires' presidential palace.
