ANCONA – The victims of the accident in Torrette, Ancona, on 4 January have been identified as Dr. Lucia Manfredi and her husband, Diego Duca. Both in their forties, the couple had been married for 11 years and were originally from Fabriano but had moved to Ancona some years ago. They leave behind a 10-year-old child.
Dr. Manfredi worked at the Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria delle Marche (AouM), while her husband was a driver for the emergency service 118 in Perugia. Tributes from colleagues and friends flooded social media after news of the tragedy broke.
“You were going to work. How sorry I am, doctor. Lucia, you were a wonderful doctor, a kind person. It shouldn’t have happened,” one message read. Another said: “You leave an immense human and professional void! I love you, Lucia.”
The accident occurred when a BMW driven by a 61-year-old man lost control while descending Via Esino in Torrette. The vehicle collided head-on with Dr. Manfredi’s Fiat Panda, pushing it into a gas pump, which was knocked over in the impact. The BMW also struck a lamppost and another vehicle, a Lancia Y.
Investigation Underway
The Local Police and State Police are investigating the incident, with Public Prosecutor Paolo Gubinelli opening a case for double vehicular homicide. An autopsy has been ordered for both victims.
Early reports suggest that poor road conditions, possibly due to rain or icy patches, may have contributed to the accident. Foggy weather might also have reduced visibility.
Tributes for the deceased
The Perugia Hospital Trust expressed its condolences:
“We deeply mourn the tragic loss of our young colleague Diego Duca, a 118 driver, and his wife. In this moment of grief, we extend our embrace to their loved ones. His human and professional qualities will remain an inspiration for us all.”
Stefania Proietti, President of the Umbria Region, shared a message of solidarity:
“With deep sadness, we learned of the tragic deaths of Diego Duca and his wife. On behalf of the Regional Council, I extend our heartfelt condolences to their family. A special thought goes to Diego’s colleagues, who continue their work despite this immense loss. This tragedy highlights the importance of continuing efforts to improve road safety.”
The General Management of the Aou delle Marche also paid tribute to Dr. Manfredi:
“Today, we lost a brilliant professional who served with dedication and selflessness in the regional health service. We join her family in mourning this devastating loss and honour her too-short life, characterised by altruism and commitment.”
The Scene of the Accident
Residents of the Torrette neighbourhood were awakened by the violent crash on the morning of the year’s first weekend. Eyewitnesses reported hearing the impact and the subsequent hiss of gas leaking from the damaged pump, which filled the area with a strong smell.
Firefighters and emergency crews arrived swiftly, but the gas leak complicated rescue efforts. Both Dr. Manfredi and Mr. Duca succumbed to their injuries. The BMW’s driver, though unharmed physically, was found in a severe state of shock.
