Tragedy Strikes Young Skating Star
A small Italian town is in shock after 15-year-old Matilda Ferrari, a rising figure skating talent, was killed Monday morning. The teen was struck by a cement mixer while walking to school in Val Rendena, Trentino.
Deadly Collision
Ferrari was crossing State Road 239 near her home, heading toward a bus stop, when the truck, owned by Cunaccia Construction, hit her in the crosswalk. Authorities are investigating, but early reports suggest the driver may have had a green light when the accident occurred.
Emergency crews arrived within minutes. Paramedics, firefighters, and doctors worked alongside a dispatched helicopter to save her. Despite their efforts, Ferrari succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Her parents arrived shortly after, facing the heartbreaking news.
The truck driver is receiving medical care and will be interviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
A Town Mourns
Ferrari’s death has left Giustino deeply shaken. Mayor Manuel Cosi expressed sorrow: “We are deeply shaken… our town has lost one of its brightest stars.”
Her school in Tione quickly provided counseling for classmates, many of whom trained and studied alongside her.
Dedication on Ice
Ferrari trained at Sporting Ghiaccio Pinzolo Artistico e Ritmico skating club, spending countless hours refining her routines. Social media shows her poise and talent, which earned recognition beyond her region.
Massimo Caola, president of the local skating association, remembered her drive: “Matilda dreamed of reaching the Olympics. That dream fueled her dedication, even through knee pain. She reached the podium in her division and inspired everyone around her.”
Tributes and Reflection
Tributes continue across Italy as the sports community mourns another young athlete lost too soon. Just last week, 18-year-old Austrian figure skater Julia Marie Gaiser died in a separate accident while cycling.
Ferrari’s death has sparked renewed discussion about pedestrian safety near school routes, especially for young athletes traveling before and after training. For Giustino, the loss is personal. The town didn’t just lose a student—it lost a young woman many believed was destined for greatness.
