Expert says Puls nightclub was built to approved plans; parents urge court to dismiss testimony
Expert for the owner said works were interior and finishing; parents of the victims asked the court not to accept those claims.
An expert witness presented by the owner of the Puls nightclub testified in favor of the primary defendant, Dejan Jovanov-Deko, saying the work at the venue was not a reconstruction but rather craft-and-finishing and interior outfitting.
In his testimony the expert maintained that the building was constructed in accordance with the approved plans and that standard construction materials were used.
Parents demand the court ignore expert's statements
The expert's statements provoked a strong reaction from the families of the victims. They told the court that the claims are sweeping and unverified and asked judges to disregard the testimony.
Relatives argued that the expert testimony, proposed by the nightclub owner, attempts to shift responsibility onto technicalities about works and materials rather than addressing the circumstances that led to the tragedy.
The trial continues as parties weigh forensic evidence, witness accounts and the objections raised by the victims' families.
Photo: press material from the event
