It was supposed to be a routine check in the industrial area of Francavilla Fontana, it became a drama that left an entire community breathless. Brigadier Carlo Legrottaglie, 59, died after being hit by bullets fired by a man on the run. He was on duty with a colleague when he intercepted a Lancia Ypsilon with two individuals on board who, instead of stopping at the checkpoint, accelerated, triggering a chase.
After a few minutes, the two cars collided. The fugitives got out of the car, and one of them opened fire, fatally injuring Legrottaglie before fleeing on foot. Rescue attempts were in vain: the carabiniere died on the spot, in the line of duty, less than three weeks from retirement.
Legrottaglie, in force at the radiomobile nucleus of Francavilla, lived in Ostuni with his wife and two daughters. The Arma, the Government, and all of institutional Italy expressed deep condolences for his passing. From Minister Crosetto to General Commander Luongo, to Deputy Prime Minister Salvini, everyone underlined the example of dedication and courage embodied by the brigadier.
His death rekindles the alarm about the safety of law enforcement officers and shakes the entire country. Today the uniform mourns a man who honored the oath he took until the last moment, leaving behind him a trail of pain and the urgency to find those responsible for this vile ambush.
Article published on 12 June 2025 - 11:05