Tbilisi City Hall responded to the tragedy that unfolded on January 25, when an eighth-grade student fell into a pit in Rike Park and drowned.
The City Hall clarified that the the teenager did not die after falling into a ditch in Rike Park, but rather the incident occurred in a building on private property and so was not within the municipality’s jurisdiction to prevent.
“We would like to respond to the false information spread by specific media outlets, as if a 16-year-old teenager, who died in an accident a few days ago, fell into an open ditch in Rike Park.
“The information spread is a complete lie and slander. Unfortunately, the tragedy occurred in a building on private territory. We repeat once again that the incident occurred on private property.
“It is unfortunate that the media is using such a tragedy to discredit the agency. An investigation has been launched into the accident. We call on media representatives to respect their profession and provide the public with only verified information.
“Tbilisi City Hall expresses deep sorrow over the death of the teenager and extends its condolences to his family,” the statement reads.
The tragedy unfolded on January 25, when a group of teenagers reportedly entered the restricted area of Rike Docks. One of them fell into accumulated water and drowned. However, the incident only became public knowledge several days later.
