(ANSA-AFP) - BELGRADE, 21 MAR - The death toll in the
collapse of a train station roof in Serbia that has triggered
massive anti-government protests has risen to 16, after an
injured teenager died on Friday. The boy suffered severe
injuries in the tragedy in Novi Sad in November last year and
was being treated at a military hospital in the capital,
Belgrade. "Despite all measures taken and the utmost dedication
of our staff, the patient (born in 2006) succumbed to complex
injuries and related complications," the hospital said on its
website. "We extend our deepest condolences to the family." Soon
after news of his death broke, a black flag was raised on the
building of the Novi Sad School of Economics he attended, and
mourners laid flowers and lit candles. "You will forever be a
part of our stories, our memories, and our hearts," read one
banner left outside the school by pupils. The concrete roof at
the Novi Sad station came crashing down on November 1, killing
14 people on the spot. The victims were aged between six and 74.
Three others were injured, one of whom died two weeks later.
Public outrage over the tragedy sparked nationwide protests,
with many blaming the deaths on corruption and inadequate
oversight of construction projects, especially as restoration
work at the train station had been completed shortly before the
accident. Protesters are demanding that those responsible be
held accountable, that arrested demonstrators be released, and
that the system be made less corrupt. (ANSA-AFP).
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © Copyright ANSA
