Police officer Roberto Villa rescues three swimmers at Villa Rosa, Italy

On 4 July around 11:30 am, off‑duty police officer Roberto Villa of the Squadra Volanti of Fermo, who also holds a lifeguard certificate, dived into the rough sea at Villa Rosa, a beach in the province of Teramo. Two swimmers – a man and a boy – and a lifeguard who had become exhausted were struggling against strong currents and waves. Villa reached their rescue boat, boarded it, secured all three people and, using a specific maneuver, turned the craft toward the shore, rowing against the current until they reached land. All three were recovered in good health.

The Questore of Fermo, Eugenio Ferraro, praised Villa’s actions as an exemplary display of public‑service spirit and duty. Villa downplayed the act as a reflex rather than a heroic gesture, citing his long‑standing experience in police service and his personal connection to the lifeguard. The incident received commendation from local authorities for its professionalism and dedication to safety.