A shooting in Catania has left a 45-year-old man seriously injured after being targeted near a betting center on Via Sabato Martelli Castaldi. The incident occurred last evening around 8 PM, creating chaos and prompting swift emergency responses.
According to reports from La Sicilia, the victim was shot multiple times, suffering severe injuries to his chest, pelvis, and legs. Eyewitnesses indicated the shooter arrived on a scooter, firing 4-5 shots at close range—two of which struck the man. Authorities were alerted immediately, leading to the dispatch of police units and medical services to the scene.
Upon arrival, emergency responders quickly transported the victim to Garibaldi Centro hospital, where he was admitted for urgent surgical intervention. "He was airlifted to Garibaldi Centro hospital where he underwent urgent surgery: his condition is grave," reported La Sicilia. Hospital officials have since confirmed his status as serious but stable.
The Catania police have launched a thorough investigation. The squad assigned to the case began their search for clues to reconstruct the dynamics of the shooting. "The Mobile Team, which has already acquired some images from the neighborhood's surveillance cameras, is investigating; they are also trying to understand the motive for the attempted murder," according to La Sicilia. The authorities are particularly focusing on possible motives, which may include connections to the victim’s criminal history.
This incident reflects persistent issues with gun violence and public safety seen across many urban centers, raising concerns among local residents. Witness accounts suggest the neighborhood was marked by previous disturbances, and many are left startled after last night’s events. "According to some witnesses, the 45-year-old would have been the victim of someone who, having arrived near the betting center aboard a scooter, fired off 4-5 shots, of which a couple hit the man," La Sicilia noted.
Law enforcement continues to pursue leads frantically, conducting interrogations to gather more information. The impact of the shooting reverberates through the community, highlighting fears of increased violence. With the background of the victim coming to light—he reportedly has prior criminal convictions—officers must assess whether previous grievances might have led to this violent confrontation.
Current reports also reveal the presence of security cameras at the shooting location, which are presumed to have captured key moments of the assault. Investigators hope these recordings will provide insight and possibly identify the shooter, as they strive for accountability and justice.
This incident marks yet another reminder of the challenges faced by Catania and similar urban areas grappling with crime and violence. The community is undoubtedly shaken but is calling for safety measures to prevent such occurrences from happening again. Residents are encouraged to share any information they might have about the shooting with the police as investigations continue.
While the investigation is still in its early stages, authorities are determined to unravel the facts behind this shocking incident. Local leaders vow to increase efforts to combat street violence, stressing the importance of community cooperation with law enforcement.
The police are expected to issue updates as their investigation progresses and are urging transparency and public vigilance. The ramifications of this event serve as a call to action for both officials and residents, emphasizing the need for effective strategies to combat gun violence and restore peace to the streets of Catania.