25 worshippers lost their lives and more than a hundred others were injured in Ethiopia’s Amhara region on Wednesday after scaffolding collapsed inside a church still under construction during an annual religious festival.
The disaster reportedly struck at the Menjar Shenkora Arerti Mariam Church as crowds gathered to honor the feast of St. Mary. Witnesses said many people had climbed the wooden structure to catch a glimpse of a ceiling mural when it suddenly gave way, sending worshippers plunging into the congregation below.
“We all had gathered in prayers when all of a sudden the scaffolding collapsed and people starting falling from the ceiling,” said Mikias Mebratu, who recounted losing three friends in the tragedy.
Medical workers confirmed that both children and the elderly were among the victims. “So far we have confirmed 25 dead and over a hundred injured,” said Seyoum Altaye, a local clinician, adding that his hospital had appealed to the Red Cross for emergency assistance.
Authorities cautioned that the death toll could rise as more of the injured remain in critical condition. “It is a tragic loss for the community,” said local administrator Teshale Tilahun.
