A serious incident has been reported in central Perugia, where a 55-year-old musician originally from Sicily was found dead in his hotel room. His colleague, who was in the same area, was taken to hospital in serious condition, while the preliminary version from the Italian authorities points to possible carbon monoxide poisoning.
Alarm raised after they missed the concert
The case came to light after members of the musical group they were traveling with noticed that the two colleagues had not arrived for the scheduled concert at Sala dei Notari.
They were expected to perform together with around 40 other musicians, which raised the first suspicions and then led to the discovery of the incident at the hotel.
Initial suspicions of carbon monoxide
According to the preliminary investigation by the Italian Carabinieri, the main line of inquiry is possible carbon monoxide poisoning.
Italian media report that this remains the leading hypothesis so far, while the final causes have not yet been determined.
Service area near the room under verification
Investigators have begun checks in the hotel premises, focusing on a service room near the room where the two musicians were staying.
One of the lines of inquiry being verified is linked to the presence of a boiler installed nearby and the possibility that a malfunction or gas leak may have caused the tragedy.
Survivor under medical care
The person who survived the incident is under doctors’ care in serious condition.
Meanwhile, the authorities are continuing checks to clarify whether this was a fatal accident linked to the hotel’s systems or another cause.
At this stage, the Italian authorities have not yet given an official conclusion on the cause of death.
The case raises serious questions about the safety conditions in the place where the musicians were staying and about any responsibilities that may emerge from the investigation.