The prosecution claims that the negligence of Maradona's medical team contributed to his untimely death, leading to potential homicide charges.
**Trial Begins for Medical Team Charged in Diego Maradona's Death**
**Trial Begins for Medical Team Charged in Diego Maradona's Death**
Upcoming trial scrutinizes the medical negligence allegations surrounding the football icon's passing.
The highly anticipated trial concerning the medical professionals involved in the care of late Argentine football star Diego Maradona has commenced in Buenos Aires. Maradona tragically passed away at the age of 60 from a heart attack at his home, a few weeks after undergoing surgery to remove a blood clot from his brain.
Prosecutors argue that his death was preventable and assert that the medical team displayed negligence in his treatment. The defense contends that Maradona declined further medical intervention and should have remained hospitalized longer following his surgery. If convicted of "homicide with possible intent," the defendants – including a neurosurgeon, psychiatrist, psychologist, medical coordinator, nursing coordinator, and other medical personnel – face prison sentences ranging from eight to 25 years.
In the opening remarks, prosecutor Patricio Ferrari expressed confidence in presenting compelling evidence of malpractice, stating that no member of the medical team fulfilled their obligations, likening the scene of Maradona's final days to a "horror theatre." He stressed that justice is not only deserved by Maradona's family but also by the Argentine people collectively.
The case has been categorized as culpable homicide, analogous to involuntary manslaughter, as authorities believe the defendants were cognizant of the critical nature of Maradona's condition yet failed to act accordingly. One night nurse testified that he recognized alarming signs in Maradona’s health but was instructed not to disturb him.
Over 100 witnesses are expected to testify throughout the trial, which may extend until July.
Maradona is remembered as one of football's greatest players, famously leading Argentina to victory in the 1986 World Cup, scoring the controversial "Hand of God" goal. His death in November 2020 prompted an outpouring of grief, with tens of thousands of mourners paying their respects at the presidential palace in Buenos Aires.
