At least nine people have been killed after the front of a building at the Novi Sad station in Serbia collapsed, according to reports.
Emergency services rushed to the scene in northern Serbia following the collapse, which occurred around 11:50 am local time.
Clips shared on social media showed paramedics, fire engines, and excavators at the site, digging through the rubble. A spokesperson for the Novi Sad Emergency Services told AFP: “There are injured people,” but did not specify an exact number.
Officials reported that they are in contact with two people trapped under the rubble, one of whom is believed to be a 14-year-old girl. Local media indicated that the renovation work was being carried out by a Chinese firm.
Serbian Prime Minister Miloš Vučević addressed the public, stating: “This is one of the most difficult days in the post-war history of Novi Sad. It is terrible. A tragedy. I express my condolences to the families of the victims and thank everyone who helps and fights to save people. We will insist that those responsible are found.”
Nova reported that Minister of Police Ivica Dacic added: “The rescuers were here immediately after receiving the call. A few hours later, the rescue operation is still ongoing. More than 80 rescuers from several cities are participating with heavy machinery.”
A video obtained by local news outlets appears to show the moments before the collapse. People were seen walking around the station, with one man getting up from a bench and moving away before the building front came crashing down. Another person sitting on a different bench remained in place; their condition is unknown. Trains from the city to the capital, Belgrade, have been delayed as investigators work to determine the cause.
Construction engineer Vladimir Tijanic told outlet N1 that it is possible the collapse was triggered by ongoing renovation work.
