Worker Killed as Floating Christmas Tree Collapses in Brazil Storm

A 21-year-old man died and two others were injured when a 184-foot festive display fell during severe weather in Maricá, Rio de Janeiro.

The incident occurred on December 16 at Araçatiba Lagoon, where workers were preparing the tree for its December 18 unveiling ceremony.
The victim, identified as Vinícius dos Santos Abreu, was pronounced dead after being rushed to a local hospital, while two others sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Severe weather, including strong winds and heavy rain, caused the structure to collapse within seconds despite prior evacuation efforts following a Civil Defense warning.
The floating Christmas tree, a popular tourist attraction featuring 360,000 lights, was destroyed as debris scattered into the lagoon.
Maricá officials have declared two days of mourning, suspended Christmas light programming, and launched an investigation into the tragedy.