A teenager who was injured in the roof collapse at a railway station in Novi Sad, Serbia, in November passed away on Friday, marking the 16th death associated with this tragedy, which has sparked widespread protests and led to the resignation of the prime minister.
The 18-year-old patient, referred to as V.C. by the Military Medical Academy (VMA) in Belgrade, was one of three individuals rescued from the debris on November 1. One of the other injured individuals died 16 days later, while another remains hospitalized.
The VMA released a statement indicating, “Despite all treatment efforts and the utmost dedication of our staff, the patient succumbed to severe injuries and subsequent complications.”
In Serbia, many have linked the Novi Sad incident to pervasive corruption and poor management. However, the authorities, along with populist President Aleksandar Vucic and his Serbian Progressive Party, have rejected these claims.
The disaster has also incited significant protests from students and government critics nationwide, including a large demonstration in Belgrade last week.
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In connection with the Novi Sad incident, prosecutors have charged 13 individuals, and the government has initiated an anti-corruption campaign. Prime Minister Milos Vucevic and two ministers have resigned, leading to the government’s collapse. The president now faces the challenge of appointing a new prime minister or calling for a snap election.
