10-Year-Old Boy Dies During Recess At School

A photograph of the "Paolo Borsellino" elementary school, where this tragic event unfolded.

Ok, so, something unusual just happened right in my hometown Quarto. In one of Quarto's schools, to be more precise the "Paolo Borsellino" elementary school, a ten-year-old boy collapsed during recess, losing consciousness and tragically passing away despite resuscitation attempts. The child, identified as Gabriele Abruzzese, was reportedly enjoying a snack with his classmates during the mid-morning break when he suddenly fell to the ground, bleeding from the mouth before losing consciousness.

Carabinieri officers responded to the scene immediately, and paramedics worked tirelessly for over 40 minutes in an attempt to revive the boy. However, despite their best efforts, Gabriele could not be saved. The local station's Carabinieri and medical personnel were joined by school staff and Gabriele's devastated parents, who witnessed the desperate resuscitation attempts. The incident has shaken the entire community.

Authorities are now investigating the cause of Gabriele's sudden death. While asphyxia has been ruled out following a preliminary examination by the coroner, the Naples Prosecutor's Office has ordered a full autopsy to determine the exact cause. Gabriele's body was seized for further examination after an initial inspection by a magistrate and coroner on site.

The tragedy has left Quarto in mourning. "It is a tragedy that has deeply affected our community, and I have personally met with Gabriele's family to offer our human and institutional support", said Mayor Antonio Sabino. He added that despite ongoing civil protection operations related to the Campi Flegrei volcanic risk exercise, the community's focus is on Gabriele and his grieving family.

The local ASL health authority has activated psychological support services for Gabriele's classmates and the wider school community. Minister of Education Giuseppe Valditara expressed his condolences on social media, writing, "The passing of little Gabriele saddens me deeply. My heartfelt condolences go to his family and the school community of Quarto."

The cause of Gabriele's death is still under investigation, but the loss of such a young life has left a profound impact on Quarto.

Rest in peace (2014 - October 11, 2024)