A 26-year-old man from Mali was fatally shot by a police officer at Porta Nuova station in Verona early on Sunday, October 20. The incident unfolded around 7 a.m. after the man, armed with a knife, had previously engaged in a series of vandalism and aggressive acts throughout the night. Authorities reported that he had broken a window at the station around 5 a.m. and later assaulted local police officers, prompting them to seek assistance to escape his violent outbursts.
As the young man returned to the station, he escalated his aggression, attacking a railway police officer at close range. The officer responded by firing three shots, one of which struck the assailant in the chest. Despite efforts to revive him, the man succumbed to his injuries within minutes. Following the shooting, the area around Porta Nuova station was cordoned off by law enforcement as investigators began collecting evidence, including surveillance footage, to piece together a complete and unbiased account of the events.
Interior Minister Matteo Salvini reacted to the incident via social media, stating, “With all due respect, he will not be missed. Thank you to the police officers for doing their duty.” This comment sparked outrage from opposition figures, including Senator Franco Mirabelli of the Democratic Party (PD), who condemned Salvini’s remarks as shameful. “It is a basic principle of humanity not to rejoice at the death of a person, regardless of their actions,” Mirabelli stated, urging a more compassionate response to the tragedy.
Verona’s Mayor Damiano Tommasi, who was in Chicago for a Vinitaly event, directed the local security councilor to coordinate with police as the investigation unfolded. Councilor Stefania Zivelonghi expressed condolences for the loss of life while acknowledging the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to ensure public safety in a challenging environment. “Our heartfelt solidarity goes to the Railway Police and Local Police involved in the incident,” she stated.
The local police union expressed its support for the officers involved in the shooting, stating they were “deeply affected by the tragic event” and called for a thorough investigation and political action to enhance safety measures. In light of this incident, Verona’s police force is under scrutiny, with calls for increased resources and personnel to address the rising violence in the area.
The fatal shooting comes amid a growing concern over safety at Porta Nuova, a hotspot for recent violent incidents. Just days before, officers were attacked by a 36-year-old Algerian man who resisted arrest and threw a stone at them. In response to the recent violence, the Veneto League’s secretary, Alberto Stefani, announced plans for a protest to raise awareness about safety issues in the neighborhood and to show solidarity with law enforcement. Local officials, including members of the Verona Domani party, are urging the mayor to implement a hiring plan for additional police officers to better manage the escalating situation.
