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An Italian man serving a prison sentence for murder died on Sunday after reportedly jumping from the roof of the iconic Duomo cathedral in Milan, according to multiple local media sources.
The man, named in reports as 35-year-old Emanuele De Maria, was on a day release scheme that allowed him to work outside prison. He had been serving a 14-year sentence for the 2016 killing of a woman but had recently been employed part-time at a hotel near Milan’s central railway station.
Authorities had been searching for De Maria since Friday after he allegedly stabbed a colleague at his workplace. His whereabouts had been unknown until the tragic incident at the cathedral.
Eyewitnesses told Italian media that De Maria climbed to the upper part of the Gothic landmark before plunging “dozens of metres” into the square below. Despite the Duomo being a major tourist attraction typically crowded with visitors, no bystanders were reported injured.
Police cordoned off the area near the cathedral following the fall, and investigators were seen inspecting the scene. De Maria was identified through identification found in his pocket and distinctive tattoos.
In 2023, De Maria had appeared on television, speaking about his experiences and rehabilitation efforts during his time in prison.
Local media, including Corriere della Sera, noted that he had been taking part in a gradual reintegration programme, which allowed certain prisoners to undertake supervised or part-time work in the community.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into both the alleged stabbing incident and the events leading to his death.
