Importance Score: 52 / 100 🔵
British Tourist Dies Following Rome B&B Explosion
A British national has tragically died from injuries sustained in a suspected gas explosion that decimated his bed and breakfast accommodation in Rome. The incident has prompted an investigation into safety standards at tourist lodgings in the Italian capital.
Details of the Incident
Grant Paterson, 54, from East Kilbride, Scotland, had been critically ill at Sant’Eugenio Hospital in Rome after the devastating blast on March 22nd. Emergency services extracted him from the wreckage, but he had suffered severe burns across 75 percent of his body, according to reports.
Family Support and Medical Treatment
His family, including his daughter, traveled to Italy last week to be by his side. Prior to his passing, Mr. Paterson had undergone initial surgery to remove burnt tissue. Medical professionals had planned further operations, including a skin graft using donor tissue, to address the extensive burns.
Confirmation of Death
Regrettably, it was confirmed today that Mr. Paterson has succumbed to his injuries. His death comes after days of intensive medical care following the explosion at the Rome B&B.
Tributes Paid to ‘True Gentleman’
Mr. Paterson, who arrived in Rome shortly before the building’s destruction, has been fondly remembered as a ‘true gentleman’ by former colleagues at the ferry company CalMac.
Diane Burke, Chief Operating Officer at CalMac, expressed deep sorrow, stating, “Everyone at CalMac is distraught that Grant has passed away. He was a true gentleman and an asset to MV Clansman, the vessel where he worked.”
“During his distinguished 12-year tenure with us, he exemplified the best of CalMac. His larger-than-life personality made him highly popular among both colleagues and passengers.” Ms. Burke added, “Our thoughts are with Grant’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult period.”
Union and Colleague Statements
The Glasgow Shipping Branch of the RMT union conveyed their condolences via social media: “The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the Glasgow Shipping Branch are with the bereaved family and friends of our branch member Grant Paterson, who has tragically died following an accident while on holiday.” They added a maritime farewell, “Fair winds and following seas.”
Chris Gibson, a fellow CalMac employee, shared his grief: “Devastated by the news today that Grant Paterson has lost his fight for survival. RIP and fair winds. You will be deeply missed, big guy.”
Community Fundraiser
A fundraising initiative established to support Mr. Paterson’s family during their time in Rome has surpassed £11,000, greatly exceeding its initial £1,000 target. This outpouring of support highlights the community’s empathy and generosity in response to the tragedy.
One contributor, identifying as Loraine Foy, expressed her sorrow: “So sorry to hear what happened. I saw you recently after many years, we had a lovely chat, and you mentioned how much you were anticipating this trip. Thinking of you.”
Investigation into B&B Blast Underway
Rome’s Mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, has mandated a formal inquiry into the catastrophic building collapse. Emergency responders rushed to the scene after the alarm was raised, initiating a swift rescue operation.
Mayor Gualtieri stated, “Preliminary findings suggest a gas leak, possibly from a cylinder explosion, as the cause, resulting in substantial damage.” He also confirmed, “There was one casualty, reportedly a guest at a lodging establishment, and investigations into the B&B are ongoing.”
Italian media outlets report that the State Attorney’s Office in Rome has launched an investigation against ‘unknown persons’ and has impounded the building as part of their inquiry.
Location and Circumstances
The B&B, known as Mamma Roma, was located in the bustling Monteverde neighborhood in southwest Rome. The property was reportedly a converted former stable building now operating as guest accommodation.
Social media posts indicated Mr. Paterson had visited popular Roman landmarks, including the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain, during his solo trip. He had been scheduled to return home on March 24th.
In an online post before the incident, he wrote: “Arrived in Rome… Accommodation is beautiful. This should be a good week… if I don’t get killed in some ungodly way…”
Emergency Response and Witness Accounts
Emergency crews reported hearing cries for help emanating from the debris and worked for almost an hour to extricate Mr. Paterson before transporting him urgently to hospital.
A witness recounted to Rai television news: “I was stationary at traffic signals when I heard an explosion. It resembled a bomb, a terrifying bomb.”
Another local resident described the force of the blast as akin to a bomb detonation, noting that all her windows violently shook.
Law enforcement established a safety perimeter around the explosion site as a precautionary measure. The wall of a neighboring villa also sustained damage in the incident.
FCDO Statement
A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) informed MailOnline: “We are providing support to the family of a British man who has died in Italy and are liaising with the relevant local authorities.”