Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The death toll from a devastating scaffolding collapse in Ethiopia’s Amhara Region has climbed to at least 36, with more than 200 others injured, local officials confirmed on Wednesday.
The tragedy unfolded around 7:45 a.m. during an annual Orthodox church celebration in the town of Arerti, located in the North Shewa Zone. According to state-affiliated Fana Broadcasting Corporation, a makeshift wooden scaffolding erected around the church for finishing construction works gave way as thousands of worshippers had gathered for the religious event.
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District police chief Ahmed Gebeyehu said the collapse caused widespread panic, with the sudden crash of the wooden structure burying dozens of people beneath heavy debris. “The situation was chaotic as many were trapped under the fallen scaffolding while others tried to rescue them with bare hands,” he told local reporters.
Emergency responders, assisted by local residents, launched immediate rescue operations. However, the crowded conditions and the instability of the remaining scaffolding complicated efforts. As of late Wednesday, search and rescue teams were still working to free individuals believed to be trapped.
Health authorities reported that more than 200 people sustained both serious and minor injuries. Victims were rushed to nearby hospitals and health centers, where medical staff have been working around the clock to treat the wounded. Officials have warned that the death toll may continue to rise due to the severity of some injuries.
The collapse also caused significant damage to the church structure itself, raising concerns over construction safety standards. Authorities have not yet provided details on what triggered the failure of the scaffolding, but investigations are underway.
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, one of the country’s largest religious institutions, attracts large crowds during annual celebrations, with thousands often participating in prayers and festivities. The incident in Arerti has shocked the nation, with many expressing grief and condolences for the victims and their families.
Government officials have pledged to provide full support for ongoing rescue and recovery operations. Local authorities said additional emergency resources have been deployed to the scene, and counseling services are being offered to survivors and grieving families.
As Ethiopia continues to mourn the loss of dozens of lives, questions remain over safety oversight in religious gatherings that draw massive crowds. For now, the focus remains on rescuing those still trapped and ensuring medical care for the injured.
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