A 25-year-old soccer player was fatally stabbed with a screwdriver while he was carrying pizzas during an altercation with a group of teenagers in Pavia, Italy. Gabriele Vaccaro and his friends encountered five youths as they returned to their parked car early in the morning on April 19. An argument ensued, leading to Gabriele being stabbed in the neck and abdomen.

Following the attack, the assailants fled the scene, and unaware of the seriousness of his injuries, Gabriele’s friends took him home. Paramedics were later called, and despite critical condition, Gabriele passed away shortly after being admitted to the hospital.

Three of the teenagers, including two young men and a 17-year-old of Egyptian descent suspected of carrying out the stabbing, have been apprehended and interrogated. CCTV footage suggests that the weapon used was a screwdriver wielded by the minor.

According to authorities, the conflict began when the group demanded Gabriele surrender the pizzas he was carrying. One of Gabriele’s friends also sustained a minor abdominal injury during the incident.

Originally from Favara, Gabriele, a postal worker and dedicated footballer who played for various clubs, was described by Atletico Favara as a kind and passionate individual. He is survived by his parents, twin sister, and two brothers.

The investigation into the tragic event is ongoing.