Adriano Cappellari admits staging fake bomb attack and apologises

Adriano Cappellari, a 23‑year‑old journalist from Enego in the province of Vicenza, was investigated for fabricating threats and a simulated incendiary attack on his own home. Prosecutors said he sent anonymous threatening letters to local figures, purchased gas canisters and denatured alcohol online, and placed an improvised explosive device outside his house to appear as a victim of organised crime.

Cappellari appeared before the Vicenza prosecutor’s office, accompanied by his lawyer Roberto Rigoni Stern, and handed a written apology to public prosecutor Alessia Grenna. In the letter he expressed remorse, cited personal distress during the election campaign, and pledged to cooperate fully with the investigation. Local authorities, including mayor Marco Frison, cancelled a planned public event to avoid further tension. Cappellari also offered to support community initiatives led by Don Maurizio Patriciello.

The case has drawn significant media attention in Italy, highlighting issues of journalistic ethics, false alarms, and the legal consequences of staged crimes.