Overview

• Four off-duty firefighters from Chieti went missing during a hike in the Balzolo area of Pennapiedimonte on April 30, 2025.
• A large-scale, multi-agency rescue operation led to the safe recovery of two hikers, one with minor injuries, and the discovery of two bodies on May 1 in the Avello gorge.
• The deceased, identified as Nico Civitella and Emanuele Capone, were reportedly 42 years old; autopsies have been ordered to determine their cause of death.
• Judicial inquiries are underway, led by the Carabinieri and Carabinieri Forestale of the Maiella National Park, to investigate the circumstances of the accident.
• The tragedy highlights the dangers of mountain terrain and has spurred discussions on safety protocols for off-duty personnel in challenging environments.