Pope Francis Dies After Health Crisis

ROME (AP) — Pope Francis has passed away, as confirmed by reports from various sources, including the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera. The pontiff was discovered unresponsive in his Vatican residence early Monday morning.

Health Background

Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the pope’s physician, was responsible for managing Francis’ treatment after a five-week hospitalization for double pneumonia. Following his return to the Vatican on March 23, the pope was expected to rest for two months in order to facilitate a complete recovery.

Final Moments

Dr. Alfieri was alerted to the pope’s condition at 5:30 a.m. Monday by Massimiliano Strappetti, Francis’ health care assistant. Upon his arrival at the Vatican 20 minutes later, the doctor found the pope with his eyes open but unresponsive to verbal and physical stimuli.

“I went into his room, and he had his eyes open. I noted that he did not have respiratory issues, so I tried to call him but he did not respond,” said Alfieri. “He also did not respond to stimuli, even painful ones. In that moment I understood there was nothing more to do. He was in a coma.”

A Decision Against Hospitalization

Dr. Alfieri explained that transferring Francis back to the Gemelli hospital, where he had been treated for a severe respiratory infection, presented too great a risk. He stated, “The pope wanted to die at home, he always said it while he was at Gemelli.”

Passing and Farewell

Two hours after his stroke, the pope was declared deceased. Cardinal Pietro Parolin attended to the pope’s body, offering prayers alongside the papal household staff. Dr. Alfieri shared a personal farewell with the pontiff:

“I gave him a caress, as a farewell.”

Funeral Arrangements

A state funeral is scheduled for Saturday, expected to attract numerous world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as well as many official delegations.