Pietracatella Ricin Poisoning Investigation Uncovers First Multi‑Phase Case

Italian prosecutors in Molise are investigating the deaths of Antonella Di Ielsi, 50, and her 15‑year‑old daughter Sara Di Vita, who died in December 2025 from ricin poisoning. Toxicology tests by the Fondazione Maugeri’s Antivenom Centre confirmed that the victims were subjected to repeated doses of ricin over several days, marking the world’s first known multi‑phase ricin poisoning case. The inquiry, led by magistrate Elvira Antonelli and the Mobile Squad of Campobasso, focuses on the victims’ close domestic circle, interrogating more than 160 relatives, friends and acquaintances. Investigators have also seized ricin‑producing plants near Pietracatella and are tracing possible toxin purchases on the dark web.