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British Couple Among Fatalities in Italy Cable Car Tragedy
NAPLES, Italy – A tragic cable car incident near Naples claimed the lives of four individuals, including a British couple, as confirmed by local officials. Graeme Winn, 65, and Elaine Winn, 58, from Market Harborough, Leicestershire, were identified as two of the victims of the accident at Monte Faito, situated in Castellammare di Stabia. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, is under investigation by Italian authorities.
Details of the Cable Car Mishap
Reports indicate that the British couple, understood to be members of a local motorcycle enthusiasts group, were among those fatally injured when a cable car malfunctioned at the popular tourist destination. An Israeli citizen also perished in the crash, and another individual, believed to be a foreign visitor, sustained serious injuries. Initial reports suggest a snapped traction cable caused the cable cars to abruptly halt. Subsequently, emergency personnel were required to evacuate passengers from a separate cable car.
Investigation Underway into Manslaughter Charges
Italian prosecutors have initiated a formal inquiry into the incident, focusing on potential charges of multiple manslaughter and culpable disaster. The investigation aims to determine the precise cause of the cable car failure and assess whether negligence contributed to the fatal outcome.
Local and National Reaction to the Tragedy
Vincenzo De Luca, the president of the Campania region, expressed his condolences via social media, describing the day as “truly tragic and painful.” He extended his sympathies to the bereaved families and those injured in the disaster.
Luigi Vicinanza Sindaco, the mayor of Castellammare di Stabia, announced a day of mourning in response to the tragedy, cancelling all planned Easter holiday festivities as a mark of respect for the victims.
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Emergency Response and Rescue Operations
Emergency services, including firefighters, police units, and Italy’s specialized alpine rescue team, were promptly dispatched to Monte Faito. The crash site is located within a popular tourist area, nestled between Pompeii and Sorrento, attracting significant attention and requiring coordinated rescue efforts.
Cable Car Operator Statement on Safety
EAV, the public transportation company operating the Monte Faito cable car, stated that the service had recently resumed operations just a week prior to the incident, asserting that all mandatory safety protocols were in place and adhered to.
Possible Causes and Ongoing Checks
Investigators are meticulously examining the cable car infrastructure and considering various potential factors that may have contributed to the crash. Among the possibilities being explored is the role of strong winds as a contributing factor in the cable system malfunction.
Prime Minister Meloni Offers Condolences
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni conveyed her deepest condolences from Washington DC, where she was engaged in discussions with US President Donald Trump. The Prime Minister’s office indicated solidarity with the victims and their families affected by the cable car tragedy.
Eyewitness Account from British Tourist
Megan Pacey, a 50-year-old tourist from London, provided an eyewitness account of the immediate aftermath. She, along with her husband and children, witnessed rescue personnel utilizing harnesses to lower individuals from one of the cable cars following the incident.
Ms. Pacey recounted, “We were within moments of it happening.” She described observing the initial rescue efforts, noting, “They started winching people down… there was a sense of urgency that had kicked in as we left.”
Ms. Pacey also noted the presence of flowers and candles at the local railway station the day after the crash, indicating the community’s mourning, and confirmed that emergency services remained present at the scene.
UK Foreign Office Assistance to Bereaved Families
A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) confirmed that they are providing support to the families of the British couple who tragically died in Italy and are liaising closely with the relevant local authorities to offer assistance and guidance during this difficult time.