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Stadium collapses – construction worker dead

After the roof of a Dutch soccer stadium collapsed, one construction worker has died and 14 others sustained injuries.

The accident occurred at the home of FC Twente, a top-tier Dutch team, located in the north-eastern city of Enschede, according to the local mayor.

“It is terrible. One person has died and 14 others were injured, with ten being taken to the hospital. Among these, two are reported to have serious injuries,” said Peter den Oudsten during a news conference.

The mayor mentioned that additional individuals might still be trapped under the debris. A significant rescue effort was underway, featuring emergency teams and a medical helicopter, as reported by a local newspaper .

An eyewitness recounted that construction workers were atop the roof when it fell around midday, prompting those underneath to flee for safety. The roof’s collapse was likened to “a house of cards” by the witness.

To facilitate the work of emergency responders, roads surrounding the stadium have been closed.

The incident took place as two supporting beams failed during the renovation work intended to add an extra tier to the stadium. The cause of the failure remains undetermined, according to the mayor.

Images captured at the scene revealed the red roof, which collapsed, completely covering one end of the steep stadium.

FC Twente secured the Dutch soccer title in 2010 and finished as the runner-up last season. The team also participated in last season’s UEFA Champions League, the premier competition in European soccer.

The stadium, named De Grolsch Veste, opened in 1998 and accommodates 24,000 spectators. It was undergoing expansion following FC Twente’s recent accomplishments.

by Buford Balony

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