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Thursday, Apr 03, 2025
Outside the box.
Scottish Tourist Dies After Gas Explosion in Rome
Grant Paterson succumbs to severe injuries sustained in a suspected gas blast at a three-storey building.
A Scottish tourist, Grant Paterson, aged 54, has died from injuries he sustained in a suspected gas explosion in Rome.
The incident occurred on March 23, 2025, at a three-storey building in the Monteverde district, resulting in the structure's collapse.
Paterson, who was visiting Rome on a solo trip, was severely burned, with reports indicating he suffered third-degree burns covering approximately 75% of his body.
He had arrived in the Italian capital on March 17 and visited several renowned tourist sites, including the Colosseum and Pantheon, prior to the incident.
Following the explosion at the accommodation known as Mamma Roma, Paterson was rescued from the debris and initially conscious when he was pulled from the wreckage.
He was subsequently transported to Sant'Eugenio Hospital, where he underwent multiple surgeries.
Unfortunately, he never regained consciousness and passed away on Tuesday.
Rome's Mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, expressed condolences on behalf of the city, stating that the news of Paterson's death has saddened the entire community.
He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the explosion, which he suggested was likely gas-related due to the nature of the injuries and the explosion's consequences.
Italy's Tourism Minister, Daniela Santanchè, also extended condolences, spotlighting the importance of ensuring tourist safety within the country.
She remarked on the ministry's efforts to enhance safety measures, particularly regarding fire prevention in accommodations frequented by tourists.
The explosion reportedly damaged nearby structures, including a wall of the Villa Pamphili park, but, fortunately, there were no other reported injuries.
Paterson was employed by the Scottish ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac), where he was regarded as a respected colleague and a beloved figure among staff and passengers.
His employer publicly expressed their sorrow over his passing and underscored Paterson's positive contributions during his 12-year tenure.
In the aftermath of the explosion, a JustGiving fundraising page has been established to assist with Paterson's medical expenses, raising over £2,500 as of Monday evening.
The British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed that they are supporting the family in these challenging circumstances and maintaining contact with local authorities regarding the incident.
The incident occurred on March 23, 2025, at a three-storey building in the Monteverde district, resulting in the structure's collapse.
Paterson, who was visiting Rome on a solo trip, was severely burned, with reports indicating he suffered third-degree burns covering approximately 75% of his body.
He had arrived in the Italian capital on March 17 and visited several renowned tourist sites, including the Colosseum and Pantheon, prior to the incident.
Following the explosion at the accommodation known as Mamma Roma, Paterson was rescued from the debris and initially conscious when he was pulled from the wreckage.
He was subsequently transported to Sant'Eugenio Hospital, where he underwent multiple surgeries.
Unfortunately, he never regained consciousness and passed away on Tuesday.
Rome's Mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, expressed condolences on behalf of the city, stating that the news of Paterson's death has saddened the entire community.
He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the explosion, which he suggested was likely gas-related due to the nature of the injuries and the explosion's consequences.
Italy's Tourism Minister, Daniela Santanchè, also extended condolences, spotlighting the importance of ensuring tourist safety within the country.
She remarked on the ministry's efforts to enhance safety measures, particularly regarding fire prevention in accommodations frequented by tourists.
The explosion reportedly damaged nearby structures, including a wall of the Villa Pamphili park, but, fortunately, there were no other reported injuries.
Paterson was employed by the Scottish ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac), where he was regarded as a respected colleague and a beloved figure among staff and passengers.
His employer publicly expressed their sorrow over his passing and underscored Paterson's positive contributions during his 12-year tenure.
In the aftermath of the explosion, a JustGiving fundraising page has been established to assist with Paterson's medical expenses, raising over £2,500 as of Monday evening.
The British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed that they are supporting the family in these challenging circumstances and maintaining contact with local authorities regarding the incident.
