A serious incident occurred on Tuesday morning in Castel d’Azzano, near Verona in northern Italy.
During an operation to evict an illegally occupied apartment, a powerful explosion destroyed a two-story house, killing three Carabinieri and injuring 15 others, including police officers and firefighters.
The victims are Marco Piffari, Davide Bernardello, and Valerio Daprà. They were at the scene to enforce an eviction order and to check for dangerous materials, such as Molotov cocktails.
Unfortunately, the sudden explosion severely injured other security personnel and firefighters present at the scene.
This was not the first time the residents had used gas to prevent intervention. A year ago, they had filled the apartment with gas, but the operation was postponed and no serious incident occurred.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her sincerest condolences to the victims’ families, highlighting the importance of the work of the Carabinieri and security forces in service to the country.
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi stated that the explosion occurred immediately after the door was opened and is suspected to have been caused by someone inside the apartment. Defense Minister Guido Crosetto said that the Carabinieri gave their lives while performing their duties.
The Verona prosecutor is investigating the incident and searching for a third person who has fled. Authorities were also searching the apartment for other dangerous materials and are working to clarify all details and ensure justice.
