Ceiling collapse in historic Brazilian church kills 1, injures 5
A tragic accident occurred in the Brazilian city of Salvador. The ceiling of the Church of St. Francis of Assisi collapsed. As a result of this incident, five people were injured, and one person died.
The local authorities of Salvador reported on the tragic event at the historic Church of St. Francis of Assisi, which took place on February 5, Eastern Time.
Tragedy in Salvador
The ceiling collapse led to the death of a 26-year-old woman from the state of São Paulo and injured six other people. Giulia Panchoni Righetto was there with her boyfriend and friends.
Initial reports indicate that the disaster resulted from multiple wooden beams breaking in the church’s central section. Salvador Mayor Bruno Reis verified the victim’s identity and expressed heartfelt condolences to her family.
Guide Meirelúcia Oliveira recounted to local media that as they were about to exit, a large hole suddenly appeared in the ceiling, causing the wood to collapse. In a moment of panic, she called for help and rushed toward the scene while the family forced open the doors, ultimately allowing them to escape safely.
The Temple Required Renovation
The Church of St. Francis of Assisi, built at the turn of the 17th and 18th centuries, is one of the most important tourist attractions in Salvador and one of the most beautiful examples of colonial architecture in Brazil. Historians, quoted by local media, point to neglect in the maintenance of the church. They claim that the temple required urgent repairs, which could have prevented the tragedy.
The city authorities announced a thorough investigation to determine responsibility for the neglect. Residents of Salvador and tourists are shaken by the events that cast a shadow over this historic place.
The Church of St. Francis of Assisi, a symbol of Brazil's cultural heritage, now requires not only reconstruction but also measures to ensure the safety of visitors. Local authorities emphasize the need for immediate action to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
