Bologna: Gay couple assaulted by group of attackers

Two 29-year-old men were violently assaulted in the center of Bologna while walking hand-in-hand. The incident occurred around 2:00 AM near Porta Mascarella after a young man reportedly began shouting homophobic insults at the couple.

The victim reported that the initial aggressor called for reinforcements, resulting in a group of approximately 15 young men surrounding and attacking the pair with punches and kicks. One of the victims sustained serious injuries and was transported to Sant’Orsola hospital, though he is reportedly out of life-threatening danger.

Local authorities and the Carabinieri are investigating the incident as a potential hate crime. While the victims described the attackers as being of foreign origin, police have not yet identified the suspects. Bologna’s Mayor, Matteo Lepore, and Vice Mayor Emily Clancy issued a statement condemning the attack, describing it as an attempt to intimidate the queer community.

Police are currently reviewing surveillance footage and seeking witnesses to identify those involved.