Portuguese man who died after falling from scaffolding in Switzerland has been identified

Demisi, a Portuguese and Cape Verdean national, is one of three people killed in the scaffolding collapse in Switzerland. Described by those closest to him as a “much loved person, a joy to be around”, the 35-year-old is survived by his wife and daughter.

The man stayed in Switzerland for just over a year and, in addition to working in construction, also played futsal for the amateur club FTB.

Nelson Mineiro, Demisi’s futsal coach, discovered the tragedy had affected a member of his team through his colleagues.

“Demisi was a fantastic person. He was recently in Switzerland and he came to us. He was a great player and a great friend. It’s a great loss for everyone. You’re losing a good friend and a great person. Demissi, wherever you are, you’ll always be in our thoughts,” he said. CM Nelson Mineiro, Demisi’s futsal coach.

“When we are emigrants, there is a great union, and it is at this moment that we notice it even more,” he emphasized.

The Portuguese Embassy in Bern has already contacted the family of the deceased and expressed sincere condolences on behalf of the national authorities, remaining at the disposal of the family of the deceased victim to provide all necessary support. Work is continuing at the scene to clear the rubble. Eight people were injured in the accident, which was caused by the collapse of scaffolding. Most of the workers were Portuguese and Albanians. The accident occurred in a 19-story, 60-meter-high building.

The Vo prosecutor’s office has opened a criminal case to establish the circumstances and causes of the incident. Swiss newspaper Le Temps claims that the accident could have been caused by a freight elevator falling and dragging scaffolding with it.