A forensic expert involved in Diego Maradona’s autopsy has testified in a trial in Buenos Aires, stating that the football legend endured at least 12 hours of agony before his death in 2020. The trial, which commenced on Tuesday, is examining the roles of seven medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, who treated Maradona at his home before his passing. The expert, Carlos Cassinelli, reported that Maradona’s heart was severely encased in fat and blood clots, suggesting a long period of suffering.

The autopsy findings, made public on Thursday, indicate that Maradona died of acute pulmonary edema stemming from congestive heart failure. According to Cassinelli, Maradona should not have been treated at home, as his condition was predictable and any competent doctor would have recognized the need for more comprehensive care. The prosecution argues that the medical personnel taking care of Maradona during his recovery failed to provide necessary medical attention, leading to his death. These individuals, including Maradona’s personal physician Leopoldo Luque and psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, are on trial for “homicide with possible intent,” with potential prison sentences ranging from eight to 25 years.

Maradona, who passed away at the age of 60 in a private residence north of Buenos Aires, had recently undergone brain surgery. Investigations have highlighted significant shortcomings in his home care, given his compromised health. The trial is expected to involve nearly 120 witnesses and could stretch until July.

Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/3/28/died-in-agony-coroners-testify-in-trial-against-maradonas-medical-team?traffic_source=rss