Collapse in Scampia: Three dead and twelve injured, including seven children.

A tragic collapse has shocked the neighborhood of Scampia, in Naples, causing three deaths and twelve injuries. The accident occurred on the third floor of Vela Celeste, a popular settlement, also involving the galleries of the lower floors. The rescue teams have completed the evacuation of the upper floors, while stability checks continue in the affected part of the building.

Among the victims is Patrizia Della Ragione, who died in hospital following serious injuries, including a fractured spleen and pelvis. The tragedy hit his family hard: his son Roberto Abbruzzo was the first victim of the collapse, while his granddaughter Margherita Della Ragione, aged 35, died shortly afterwards. Giuseppe and Luisa Abbruzzo, Patrizia's other two children, are hospitalized in serious conditions. Four of the seven injured children are also Patrizia's grandchildren.

The situation is critical for two little girls hospitalized in intensive care at the Santobono pediatric hospital, with a reserved prognosis. The Cardarelli Health Directorate has activated psychological support for the families of the victims and injured.

The President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, he expressed solidarity with the city of Naples and the families involved, while the mayor Gaetano Manfredi has proclaimed a day of mourning. Flags were flown at half-mast to commemorate the victims.

The collapse may have been caused by a dispute between two families which led to an excessive load on the dilapidated balcony. The Prosecutor's Office is investigating, without ruling out any hypotheses.

By the evening, 300 of the 800 displaced people will be able to return to their homes, while temporary structures have been identified for the other 500. The Civil Protection is distributing water to the displaced people, who have occupied some rooms of the Federico II University in protest.

Mayor Manfredi reiterated his commitment to the redevelopment of the neighborhood, underlining that the Vele di Scampia regeneration project will not stop. Even the President of the Campania Region, Vincenzo De Luca guaranteed maximum health and logistical support.

The neighborhood is in mourning and prayer, with the archbishop of Naples who asked for solidarity for the affected families. La Vela Celeste, one of the last ones left standing, was part of a redevelopment plan financed with 18 million euros to improve the living conditions of residents and erase the stigma of degradation associated with Scampia.

Authorities are trying to establish whether the collapse could be linked to ongoing redevelopment work. In the meantime, the priority is to assist those affected and ensure the safety of the neighborhood.