Jasmina Mihnjak refers to the Novi Sad train station as a “symbol” of her city, a gathering spot for families and friends to convene, depart, and reunite.

Now, however, trains are not operational, police have restricted access to the station, and a small memorial of candles and flowers lies on the ground outside.

Many who walk by look away, burdened by the traumatic memory of the incident that took place three months ago when an outdoor shelter at the station collapsed on November 1, claiming 15 lives.

“No one could have foreseen such a tragedy,” expressed Mihnjak, a psychologist in the area.

Few also anticipated that this calamity would spark the most significant challenge to Serbia’s president and ruling party, which has been in power for 13 years marked—according to critics—by increasing state control, blatant corruption, and a prevailing culture of violence.