URGENT UPDATE: A medieval tower in central Rome, known as the Torre dei Conti, has partially collapsed during renovation efforts, leaving one worker seriously injured and another trapped under rubble. The incident occurred near the iconic Colosseum earlier today, with ongoing rescue operations creating a scene of urgency and fear.
Fire department spokesman Luca Cari confirmed to Reuters that rescuers are working hard to free the trapped worker. “We are trying to get him out alive but the situation is complex because of the risk of further collapses,” Cari stated. The injured worker has been transported to the hospital but is currently in stable condition, while two additional workers sustained minor injuries but declined hospital treatment.
Hundreds of tourists witnessed the dramatic rescue as firefighters deployed a mobile ladder to reach the upper levels of the 29-meter-high tower. As the rescue unfolded, another section of the tower crumbled, sending clouds of dust and debris into the air, causing firefighters to quickly retreat for safety. Videos circulating on social media capture the alarming moment of the secondary collapse, highlighting the precarious state of the historic structure.
The Torre dei Conti, located along the bustling Via dei Fori Imperiali, has been undergoing a four-year renovation project, expected to complete next year. Originally built in the early 13th century by Pope Innocent III, the tower has faced similar hardships in its history, suffering significant damage from earthquakes in the past. It has been out of use since 2006 and was under restoration when this disaster struck.
Officials, including Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri and Italian Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli, were present at the scene, emphasizing the importance of addressing the structural issues that led to this event. The area surrounding the tower had been closed to pedestrians due to ongoing work, highlighting the potential risks associated with such renovations.
As rescue operations continue, the situation is developing rapidly, and authorities are urging caution in the vicinity of the tower. What happens next will be crucial in determining the safety of the remaining structure and the welfare of the trapped worker.
Stay tuned for more updates on this breaking story as the situation evolves.
