Worker dies after 11 hours trapped in partially collapsed medieval tower in Rome

Firefighters managed to extract a worker from rubble inside a medieval tower that partially collapsed during renovation work in Rome, but they later died.

Firefighters late Monday finally managed to extract a worker from beneath rubble inside a medieval tower that partially collapsed during renovation work in the heart of Rome, but the joy of that rescue proved short-lived.

The man didn't withstand the trauma he suffered and died soon after.

"I express deep sorrow and condolences, on behalf of myself and the government," Italy's Premier Giorgia Meloni said in a statement after midnight, confirming his death. "We are close to his family and colleagues at this time of unspeakable suffering."

The Romanian foreign affairs ministry identified the man as Octav Stroici in a statement Tuesday morning, and thanked rescuers for their determination as they worked 11 hours for his extraction. Another Romanian was successfully removed and is out of danger, the statement said.

Rescuers had faced a complex task as they tried to use a first-floor window to get near the trapped worker. But they were forced to retreat in a cloud of debris as the structure continued to give way. Another approach on two ladders was also aborted, and a drone sent up in their stead.