Late Monday, firefighters successfully rescued a worker from beneath rubble inside a medieval tower that partially collapsed during renovation work in the heart of Italy’s capital. Unfortunately, the rescued worker, Octav Stroici, did not survive the trauma and passed away soon after. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed deep sorrow and condolences for the tragic loss. Another Romanian worker was also rescued and is now safe.
Rescuers faced challenges as they attempted various methods to reach the trapped worker, including using a crane with giant tubes to remove rubble from a window. The operation to extract Stroici lasted a long time due to the continuous falling debris. Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri mentioned that the worker was speaking to rescuers and using oxygen during the rescue operation.
The Torre dei Conti, built in the 13th century, has been undergoing an $11.1-million restoration process. The collapse caused by the renovation work led to injuries and one fatality. Italian prosecutors are investigating potential charges related to the incident. Despite the tragedy, no firefighters were harmed during the rescue efforts.
