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A forensic specialist has testified that football legend Diego Maradona endured severe agony for at least 12 hours before his death, raising questions about the medical care he received in his final days. The testimony was presented during an ongoing manslaughter trial against seven healthcare professionals accused of negligence in Maradona’s treatment.
The 1986 World Cup champion, widely regarded as one of football’s greatest players, passed away at the age of 60 in November 2020 due to cardiac arrest at his residence in Buenos Aires. Autopsy findings revealed that Maradona suffered from acute pulmonary edema secondary to congestive heart failure, with his heart showing significant fat deposits and blood clots, signs indicating prolonged distress before death.
Carlos Cassinelli, director of forensic medicine at the Scientific Police Superintendency, provided key insights into the post-mortem examination. "The heart was completely covered in fat and blood clots, which indicate agony. This was something foreseeable. Any doctor examining a patient would have noticed this," he testified.
The prosecution alleges that the medical team, which included a neurosurgeon, psychiatrist, psychologist, and nurses, failed to provide the necessary care that could have prevented Maradona’s decline. Witnesses have also claimed that the former footballer’s face and abdomen appeared excessively swollen in the days leading up to his death, further pointing to overlooked warning signs.
Among the accused are Maradona’s personal physician, Dr. Leopoldo Luque, and psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, who prescribed medication leading up to his passing. If convicted, the defendants could face up to 25 years in prison.
The trial, expected to span several months with multiple weekly hearings, continues to scrutinize the medical decisions made in Maradona’s final days. Meanwhile, nurse Gisela Madrid, also indicted, will face a separate jury trial later this year.
Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Maggy López, Pexels / Fermin Rodriguez Penelas
