A night of violence has shaken Bergamo, Italy, following a tragic incident that resulted in the death of a 26-year-old man, Riccardo Claris, during a brawl between rival soccer fans. The confrontation, which erupted shortly after 1 AM on May 4, 2025, saw supporters of Atalanta clashing with fans of Inter, leading to a fatal stabbing.
The altercation began outside a bar in the Borgo Santa Caterina district, where tensions had already escalated among the two groups of supporters. Witnesses reported that the atmosphere was charged, with heavy insults traded before the situation deteriorated into physical violence. According to local authorities, the argument was sparked by a chant sung by Jacopo De Simone, a 19-year-old Inter supporter who was present with his twin brother and friends. This provoked a reaction from the opposing Atalanta fans, including Claris.
As the brawl intensified, Claris reportedly intervened to defend his brother, who had become embroiled in the chaos. Tragically, it was during this intervention that he was stabbed in the back with a ceramic knife, a single blow that proved fatal. Emergency services were called to the scene, but despite their prompt arrival, they could only confirm Claris's death.
The stabbing occurred in via dei Ghirardelli, just a short distance from the Gewiss Stadium, home to Atalanta. The area was known for its vibrant soccer culture, but this incident has raised serious concerns about safety among fans and residents alike. Local police quickly apprehended Jacopo De Simone, who surrendered to the carabinieri shortly after the incident, claiming he acted in defense of his brother. He has since been charged with voluntary manslaughter.
Authorities recovered both the blade and the handle of the ceramic knife near Claris's body, and investigations are ongoing to clarify the circumstances surrounding the altercation. The police are examining surveillance footage from the area and interviewing witnesses to piece together the events leading up to the stabbing.
Riccardo Claris was described as a dedicated Atalanta supporter who frequently attended games, often seen in the Curva Nord section of the stadium. He was also a promising young man, having recently graduated in Economics and Commerce and secured a job with a financial firm in Milan. His family and friends are mourning the loss of a young man who had a bright future ahead of him.
His uncle, Luca Salvioni, expressed disbelief over the incident, stating, "He was a model student and a good person. It’s hard to understand how he ended up in such a situation." Claris was at home on the night of the incident when he was alerted by his girlfriend about the fight, prompting him to go outside.
The violent clash has sparked discussions about the need for increased security measures at sporting events and in areas frequented by fans. Local residents have voiced their concerns, recalling the chaos of that night, with some reporting seeing bars and sticks being wielded during the fight.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, the upcoming match between Atalanta and Monza, scheduled for later that day, looms large. Fans are left questioning the safety of attending games amid rising tensions between rival supporters.
Claris's death has sent shockwaves through the soccer community, prompting calls for unity and a reevaluation of fan culture. Many are calling for a renewed focus on promoting sportsmanship and reducing violence among supporters. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of unchecked rivalry and aggression.
As investigators continue their work, the family of Riccardo Claris is left to mourn a beloved son, brother, and friend, whose life was cut tragically short. The loss of such a promising young man has left an indelible mark on the city of Bergamo, a place known for its passionate soccer culture.
In the days to come, as the investigation unfolds, the community will be watching closely, hoping for justice and a renewed commitment to ensuring the safety of all fans.
