Brandizzo railway tragedy: Preliminary hearing begins for five workers' deaths

The preliminary hearing has commenced in Ivrea regarding the Brandizzo railway tragedy, which occurred on the night between August 30 and 31, 2023. The incident resulted in the deaths of five workers from Sigifer, a subcontracting company, who were performing track maintenance when they were struck by a non-passenger train traveling at approximately 160 km/h.

The victims have been identified as Kevin Laganà, Michael Zanera, Giuseppe Sorvillo, Saverio Giuseppe Lombardo, and Giuseppe Aversa.

Following a three-year investigation, prosecutors are seeking indictment for the companies Rfi, Sigifer, and Clf, as well as 21 individuals. Charges include multiple manslaughter, negligent railway disaster, and violations of workplace safety regulations. Among those implicated is the former CEO of Rfi, who currently serves as the CEO of the FS Italiane Group.

The hearing has faced logistical challenges, with reports of inadequate courtroom sizes for the number of participants. At least 35 parties, including the Piedmont Region and various trade unions, have requested to join the proceedings as civil parties. The hearing has been adjourned until October 28.