Scaffolding Collapse at Ethiopian Church Kills 30, Injures Over 200

At least 30 people died and over 200 were injured when scaffolding collapsed at a church in northern Ethiopia during a St. Mary celebration. Rescue efforts are ongoing, and some victims have been taken to Addis Ababa for treatment. Authorities warned the toll may rise and emphasized construction safety.

At least thirty people have lost their lives and more than two hundred others have sustained injuries after a scaffolding structure collapsed at Menjar Shenkora Arerti Mariam Church in the Amhara region of northern Ethiopia. The tragic incident occurred during the morning hours as worshippers had gathered for an annual religious event dedicated to celebrating St. Mary, drawing a large crowd to the church.

According to eyewitnesses, many of the attendees had climbed onto the wooden scaffolding in an attempt to get a closer view of a ceiling mural inside the church. It was at this moment that the support structure suddenly gave way, sending numerous people plummeting to the ground. One witness, Mikias Mebratu, who tragically lost three friends in the accident, described the chaotic scene, saying, “We all had gathered in prayers when all of a sudden the scaffolding collapsed and people started falling from the ceiling.”

Medical personnel at the scene confirmed that the victims include both children and elderly members of the congregation. Seyoum Altaye, a clinician working at a local hospital, reported that, as of now, twenty-five deaths have been officially confirmed, with more than a hundred people injured. He added that the hospital is currently coordinating with the Red Cross to provide additional support and care for the injured victims.

Local authorities have expressed concern that the death toll may increase as rescue efforts continue, with some people still trapped under the rubble. Teshale Tilahun, the regional administrator, described the event as a “tragic loss for the community” and emphasized the ongoing efforts to rescue and treat those affected. Many of the injured have been transported to the capital city, Addis Ababa, to receive more advanced medical care.

In response to the disaster, the government released a statement through state media offering “deep condolences for the damage caused by the collapse of the scaffolding.” The statement also stressed the importance of ensuring safety during construction projects to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Rescue operations remain ongoing as authorities and emergency services work tirelessly to assist survivors and manage the aftermath of the collapse.