Forensic Expert Testifies in Court That Maradona Died ‘in Agony’
Forensic Expert Testifies in Court That Maradona Died ‘in Agony’
An expert involved in the autopsy of Diego Maradona testified Thursday that the condition of the late football icon’s corpse indicated he likely died “in agony.” This statement was made during the trial of seven medical professionals accused of homicide related to Maradona’s death.
Forensic doctor Mauricio Casinelli revealed that Maradona had been suffering from significant water accumulation in his lungs for “at least 10 days” prior to his passing, which was due to heart failure and liver cirrhosis. Casinelli emphasized that the medical staff attending to Maradona should have recognized these symptoms.
Casinelli also noted that Maradona’s heart was nearly double the weight of a normal heart, indicating he experienced severe pain for at least 12 hours before he died. Maradona passed away on November 25, 2020, at the age of 60, while recuperating at home following brain surgery for a blood clot. He had a long history of battling substance abuse.
The seven medical professionals are on trial amid claims by prosecutors that they exhibited a “horror theater” of negligence in Maradona’s final days. He was officially declared to have died from heart failure and acute pulmonary edema—a condition caused by fluid in the lungs—just two weeks after his surgery.
Casinelli pointed out that the location of Maradona’s residence was not “a suitable place for home hospitalization.” The defendants are charged with “homicide with possible intent,” suggesting they acted despite knowing their decisions could result in the patient’s death. If convicted, they face prison sentences ranging from eight to 25 years.
Prosecutors have accused the medical team of leaving Maradona to suffer for a “prolonged, agonizing period” leading up to his death. The trial, which has faced delays, is expected to include testimony from nearly 120 witnesses and may continue until July.
