A late-night balcony collapse at a housing complex in the Scampia suburb of Naples, Italy, on July 22, 2024, led to the unfortunate loss of three lives and caused injuries to at least 12 others, seven of whom are children. The incident took place at the Vela Celeste residential complex, a social housing estate recognized for its unique “sails” architectural shape and poverty-stricken conditions.
Law enforcement sources indicate that the fatal incident occurred when a fourth-level balcony collapsed, leading to the subsequent collapse of two lower balconies. The concrete and iron structure claimed the lives of Roberto Abbruzzo, 29, who died at the scene; Margherita Della Ragione, 35, who succumbed to her injuries at the hospital; and Patrizia Della Ragione, 53, Roberto’s mother and Margherita’s sister, who also passed away from her injuries on July 24. Among the injured, several are in critical condition, including two children receiving treatment at Santobono Hospital in Naples.
Local residents recounted the fearful moment of the balcony collapse to the Italian media, likening the sound to an earthquake’s loud rumble.
Emergency responders were quick on the scene, evacuating around 800 inhabitants from the building. For hours, firefighters and rescue teams sifted through the debris to rescue individuals trapped underneath.
Initial reports propose that the balcony could not withstand the weight of multiple residents who had gathered due to the warm evening. Structural engineers are set to perform an in-depth analysis to establish the precise cause of the collapse.
The Le Vele di Scampia neighborhood, where the building is located, has a history of structural problems and social difficulties. Constructed in the 1960s and 1970s, many buildings in the area are decaying. The complex was the target of a substantial urban renewal project that started in April, aimed at revamping the neighborhood and shedding its infamous reputation. The $19.8 million initiative includes enhancements to common areas, garage floors, arcades, and roofs.
Following the incident, Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her condolences to the victims’ families and extended her thoughts to the injured and their relatives on the “X” social media platform. Similarly, Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, labeled the incident a “tragedy.”
Visibly affected by the incident, Naples Mayor Gaetano Manfredi pledged full support to the impacted families and promised a comprehensive investigation.
Notably, this collapse has spotlighted the broader issue of building safety and maintenance in older residential districts. Experts have noted that many such structures, constructed during periods of quick urban growth, have suffered significant wear and tear.
Scampia district residents have been advocating for improved living conditions and stronger maintenance procedures for some time. The area’s connection to organized crime, particularly the Camorra mafia, has often overshadowed these legitimate concerns. While the recent urban renewal project is a step forward, it underscores the deep-seated issues that remain unaddressed.
This event echoes a similar tragedy in Majorca, Spain, a few months earlier, where a building collapse at a beach bar resulted in four deaths and left dozens injured. The beach club owner was later taken into custody on manslaughter charges due to unauthorized structural modifications.