A bus driver died after being struck by a brick during an attack on a coach carrying supporters of the Pistoia basketball team on Sunday. The incident occurred on the A2 highway near Rieti, following Pistoia’s 88-73 win over Rieti Sebastiani Basket in Italy’s second-tier basketball league.
Police said the bus was allegedly ambushed by Rieti fans as it left the city. The victim, 65-year-old Raffaele Marianella, originally from Rome and living in Florence, was working for the company Jimmy Travel. He had been employed for only a few months and was serving as the vehicle’s second driver. Marianella was not at the wheel during the attack but was seated beside his colleague who was driving.
Rieti prosecutor Paolo Auriemma confirmed that an investigation into voluntary manslaughter has been opened. “Several witnesses have been questioned but no possible perpetrators have been identified yet,” Auriemma said.
Sports Minister Andrea Abodi condemned the incident, calling it “a shocking assault”. He added, “It is not acceptable for someone to die in this way.”
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also expressed outrage. “This terrible news leaves you speechless,” she said on social media. “The attack on the Pistoia Basket fans’ bus, which cost the life of a driver who was hit by a brick, is an unacceptable, insane act of violence. I am confident that those responsible for this cowardly, criminal act will be identified and brought to justice quickly.”
Marianella’s daughter, Federica, paid tribute to her father on Instagram, writing, “I will always keep you in my heart.”
Police continue to question Rieti supporters as part of the ongoing investigation.
