Police officer Antonio Villani killed in E45 highway accident

Antonio Villani, a 50-year-old Digos inspector from the Avellino Police Headquarters, was killed in a traffic accident on the E45 highway near Borello, Cesena. The incident occurred while Villani was on duty providing security escort for Avellino football fans traveling to a Serie B match against Cesena.

Reports indicate that Villani was struck by a vehicle while on foot in a service area. While some reports mention a truck, others specify a SUV lost control and struck him. A second police officer was injured in the incident and transported to the hospital with non-serious injuries. The driver of the vehicle is under investigation for vehicular homicide.

The death has prompted widespread condolences from Italian institutional figures, including Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi and the Avellino Police Commissioner, who praised Villani’s professionalism and humanity. The accident caused significant traffic disruptions on the E45, requiring the closure of the highway for forensic investigations by the State Police.