Florence police identify suspect in David replica gas cylinder hoax

Authorities in Florence have identified a 49-year-old man responsible for a security scare at Piazzale Michelangelo. The individual is facing charges for causing a false alarm and interrupting a public service after leaving an empty gas cylinder and an innocuous object beneath a replica of Michelangelo’s David.

The incident, which occurred on October 5, prompted an immediate response from the Carabinieri and bomb disposal experts. The area, a major tourist destination, was cordoned off and traffic was diverted while technicians inspected the device. Experts determined the cylinder was empty and the attached object posed no danger, allowing the site to be reopened to pedestrians and vehicles.

Investigators used surveillance footage to track the suspect's movements and confirm his identity. Florence Mayor Sara Funaro expressed the need for full clarity regarding the incident, which occurred amidst local concerns regarding waste and urban decay in the area.