Overview

• Alessandro Coatti, a 42-year-old molecular biologist and former Royal Society of Biology officer, was murdered in Santa Marta, Colombia, with his dismembered body discovered in a suitcase on April 8.
• Police have recovered Coatti's head, arms, and legs but are still searching for his missing torso as part of an ongoing investigation.
• Santa Marta Mayor Carlos Pinedo Cuello has announced a reward of 50 million Colombian pesos ($12,000) for information leading to the arrest of those responsible.
• Coatti, who left his prestigious career in late 2024 to volunteer and travel in South America, had no criminal connections or known threats against him, according to authorities.
• The case has drawn international attention, with tributes highlighting Coatti's contributions to science and his dedication to environmental and bioscience advocacy.