Michele Rago, 25, Killed in Wind Farm Accident in Calabria, Italy

Michele Rago, a 25‑year‑old worker from Brindisi Montagna in the province of Potenza, died on 23 July 2026 while performing maintenance on a turbine in the "Aria del Vento" wind farm located between Mongrassano and Cerzeto in the province of Cosenza, Calabria. According to the first reconstruction, he was caught in the turbine’s gears at a height of about 60‑70 metres; rescue teams from the fire service were unable to save him.

The incident prompted the declaration of municipal mourning and a city‑wide period of mourning was announced by Brindisi Montagna mayor Gerardo Larocca. Union leaders and regional officials expressed grief and called for stricter safety checks. Giuseppe Palumbo, provincial secretary of the UGL of Potenza, said, "Every time a worker leaves home and does not return, the State must examine its conscience. Safety cannot be just a slogan."

Basilicata regional president Vito Bardi added, "The loss of a young life while working is a dramatic wound for the whole community; the authorities must ensure that workplace safety becomes a primary commitment."

The investigation is being led by the Carabinieri, coordinated by the Prosecutor’s Office of Cosenza, to determine the exact cause of the accident and assess compliance with safety regulations.