BELGRADE -- Eight people have died following the collapse of an awning at Novi Sad railway station, Serbian Interior Minister Ivica Dacic confirmed on Friday.

In a government press release, Dacic stated that rescue operations are ongoing on, with emergency teams in contact with two individuals trapped under the debris. Two injured individuals have been transported to the hospital, one of whom remained in critical condition.

Describing the incident as a "major tragedy," Dacic emphasized that rescue efforts are proceeding under extremely challenging conditions.