Ceiling collapse at historic Salvador church leaves one dead
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, six people were injured, and one person died.
Salvador's local authorities reported on the tragic event at the historic Church of St. Francis of Assisi on February 5, at 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 was caused by the failure of multiple wooden beams 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 just as they were about to exit, a large opening 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, allowing them to escape and survive.
The church required renovation
The Church of St. Francis of Assisi, built at the turn of the 17th and 18th centuries, is one of Salvador's most important tourist attractions and one of the most beautiful examples of colonial architecture in Brazil. Historians, quoted by local media, point to neglect maintaining the church. They claim the church required urgent repairs, which could have prevented the tragedy.
The city authorities announced a thorough investigation to determine who is responsible for the neglect. Salvador's residents and tourists are shaken by the events that have cast a shadow over this historic place.
The Church of St. Francis of Assisi, a symbol of Brazil's cultural heritage, now requires reconstruction and visitor safety. Local authorities emphasize the need for immediate action to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
