A small town in northern Italy is grieving the loss of 15-year-old figure skater Matilda Ferrari, who tragically lost her life after being struck by a cement mixer while on her way to school on Monday morning. The incident occurred in Val Rendena, Trentino, as she was crossing State Road 239 close to her residence. Reports indicate that she was en route to a bus stop when the truck collided with her in the crosswalk.
Emergency responders and firefighters arrived promptly and collaborated with paramedics in a desperate attempt to save her life. A helicopter was summoned, but her injuries were too grave. She was declared dead at the scene. Her parents arrived shortly thereafter and were confronted with the heartbreaking news.
Authorities are currently investigating the accident. Preliminary information suggests that the driver may have been proceeding through a green light at the time of the collision. He is receiving medical treatment and will be interviewed by investigators.
Ferrari’s hometown of Giustino is in a state of shock. The mayor remarked: “We are profoundly shaken; our town of Giustino has lost one of its brightest stars.” Her school swiftly organized counseling services for her classmates, many of whom had trained alongside her for several years.
She was a committed skater who practiced at the Sporting Ghiaccio Pinzolo Artistico e Ritmico club, dedicating extensive hours to perfecting her routines. Online videos showcase her elegant performances and the dedication that distinguished her from her peers.
Massimo Caola, the president of the local skating association, remarked: “Matilda aspired to one day compete in the Olympics. This aspiration was evident in the commitment she demonstrated in every performance, even while enduring knee pain. Despite these challenges, she managed to achieve a podium finish in her category. She was an extraordinary skater, supported by an equally extraordinary family.”
Tributes have flooded in from all corners of the skating community. Her passing occurs just days after another young skater, 18-year-old Julia Marie Gaiser from Austria, tragically lost her life in a similar incident after being struck by a truck while cycling.
This tragedy has reignited conversations regarding pedestrian safety for students and young athletes in northern Italy. However, for the residents of Giustino, the loss is far more personal. They mourn a young woman whom many believed was destined for greatness.
