An Argentine judge orders 8 to face a homicide trial in soccer star Maradona's death
NPR Online NewsDec 24, 2021
The Facts
Eight healthcare workers in Argentina will stand trial over the death of soccer legend Diego Maradona, facing charges of “homicide by negligence.” Three appellate judges in San Isidro rejected defense appeals for a lesser charge, upholding a year-old indictment by prosecutors.
Maradona died on Nov. 25, 2020, at the age of 60, from heart failure after the 1986 World Cup winner had undergone brain surgery earlier that month. An autopsy revealed Maradona died in his sleep of acute pulmonary edema — a buildup of fluid in the lungs — due to congestive heart failure.
The Spin
Narrative A
Diego Maradona would still be alive today if medical professionals had not been negligent, robbing Maradona’s family, and the world, of an icon. Not only did the eight hospital workers neglect their duty of care, but they also callously allowed a man to die in agony while deflecting blame and shaming the victim. The facts are clear — Diego Maradona was a victim of homicide by negligence, and justice must be served.
Narrative B
Diego Maradona’s death was an absolute tragedy, and the loss of such a bright star will always be painful. However, Maradona’s caretakers should not be scapegoated for his death. Maradona had a history of substance abuse and was incredibly difficult to work with in his final days. He also refused to go to a rehabilitation center, insisting on receiving at-home care. Medical professionals did all they could to help Maradona, and these charges are deeply unfair.
