A tragic accident occurred on April 17, 2025, when a cable car plunged into a ravine near Monte Faito, south of Naples, Italy, resulting in the deaths of four individuals and leaving one person seriously injured. The cable car, which had just reopened for the season, was carrying tourists when a traction cable reportedly broke during its ascent.
Among the deceased were three tourists, including a brother and sister from the United Kingdom, and an Arab woman with Israeli citizenship. The fourth victim was the Italian operator of the cable car. Authorities reported that a fifth tourist, the brother of the Israeli victim, is currently in critical but stable condition at a hospital in Naples.
The cable car was ascending Monte Faito in Castellammare di Stabia when it suddenly stopped near the peak, at an elevation of approximately 1,050 meters, before plummeting into a ravine. Rescue teams worked tirelessly to evacuate 16 passengers trapped in another cable car that was stuck in the air near the foot of the mountain. Emergency services, including over 50 firefighters, police, and alpine rescue personnel, faced challenging weather conditions, including heavy fog and strong winds, which hampered their operations.
Luigi Vicinanza, the mayor of Castellammare di Stabia, provided details about the incident, stating, “The traction cable broke. The emergency brake downstream worked, but evidently not the one for the cabin that was entering the station.” He emphasized that regular safety checks had been conducted on the cable car line, which stretches 3 kilometers from the city to the mountain's summit.
As a result of the incident, the local prosecutor's office has launched an investigation into possible manslaughter. This inquiry will include inspections of the cable car stations, the pylons, the two cabins, and the cable itself. The company operating the service, EAV, confirmed that the seasonal cable car had reopened with all required safety conditions in place.
The cable car, popular for its breathtaking views of Mount Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples, averages around 110,000 visitors annually. The tragic event has cast a shadow over what was expected to be a bustling tourist season.
In the wake of the accident, many are questioning the safety measures in place for such attractions. Tourists and locals alike are expressing their concern over the incident, especially given the cable car's recent reopening after a seasonal closure.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring that such a tragedy does not happen again. The local community is mourning the loss of life and supporting the families affected by this devastating event.
Emergency responders have been praised for their swift action in the aftermath of the accident. However, the incident raises important questions regarding the safety protocols and maintenance standards for cable car systems, particularly in areas with challenging weather conditions.
Authorities are urging visitors to remain vigilant when using such transportation systems and to report any safety concerns they may encounter. The hope is that this tragic incident will lead to improvements in safety regulations and practices in the cable car industry.
As the investigation unfolds, the local government is also expected to review the operational standards of EAV and other similar services to prevent future accidents. The safety of tourists and residents alike must remain a priority, especially in popular tourist destinations like Monte Faito.
The community continues to rally around the victims' families, offering support and condolences during this difficult time. The tragic loss of life has left a profound impact on the area, reminding everyone of the importance of safety in recreational activities.
In the coming days, further updates are expected as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available regarding the circumstances surrounding the cable car's fall.
