Samuele Spinelli's death in Barcelona sparks investigations and funeral rites in Florence

Samuele Spinelli, a 28‑year‑old Florentine, died on 1 June after a police stop in Barcelona. Two investigations have been opened—one in Italy and one in Spain—to determine the cause of death. CCTV footage shows Spinelli entering a department store, being restrained by private security and police, and later receiving a midazolam injection before going into cardiac arrest. Autopsy reports mention multiorgan failure and traces of methamphetamine, while the family points to bruises and injuries that raise questions about the handling of the incident.

In his hometown of Galluzzo, a district of Florence, a funeral ceremony was held on 28 July. Hundreds attended a motorcycle procession, honoring Spinelli’s passion for riding. The family, accompanied by local officials including Florence assessor Letizia Perini, called for justice and transparency, displaying “Giustizia per Samuele” shirts. The events have intensified public scrutiny of police conduct in Spain and prompted legal actions by the family in both countries.