Walkway collapse in Naples, Italy: two fatalities and at least 13 injuries

On Monday the 22^nd around 10:30 p.m. local time the third floor's walkway of a housing estate, known as Le Vele di Scampia at Vela Celeste, Naples collapsed resulting in 2 fatalities. Also, 13 other people were injured. Seven children were among the injured while all the survivors were transferred to the Santobono hospital in Naples to receive medical help. Eyewitnesses stated that they heard a loud sound and then the concrete walkway crashed onto the floor below at the Blue Sail.

According to local authorities, the firefighters arrived promptly at the site and started the evacuation process of the 800 residents throughout the night. As of present, the exact cause of the collapse is not known, but Prosecutors in Naples ruled out the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the factors that led to the collapse.

It should be noted that the structure was built between 1960 to 1970 and the area was stigmatized by extreme poverty. Therefore, the building had no maintenance, and it can be assumed as neglected. Because of this, within the framework of the redevelopment project the authorities had decided prior to the collapse to demolish the entire building.

In all, mayor Gaetano Manfredi expressed his condolences and stated that the social services will provide the assistance needed to the residents, while he has ordered technicians to complete safety checks.