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Driver Detained After Positive Drug Test in Crash That Killed Police Officer in Torre del Greco

Prosecutors opened an aggravated vehicular homicide case after drug screening, with omission of aid also alleged.

Overview

  • A 47-year-old officer, Aniello Scarpati, died after a BMW X4 struck a police patrol car around 2 a.m. on viale Europa, sending it into a ravine.
  • The injured colleague, Ciro Cozzolino, underwent surgery at Ospedale del Mare and remains hospitalized in critical condition under reserved prognosis.
  • The suspected 28-year-old driver presented at a local hospital hours after fleeing, tested positive for illegal substances, and was placed in custody.
  • Investigators say the SUV, reportedly rented and carrying six people including minors, crossed into the opposite lane at high speed; several occupants left the scene and later sought treatment.
  • The Torre Annunziata prosecutor’s office is reviewing surveillance footage and witness accounts, with separate juvenile procedures for the minors, as national and local leaders issued condolences and the city plans mourning measures.