Turin residents demand mobility reforms after fatal child cycling accident

Following the death of a seven-year-old boy, Nicolò, who was struck by a vehicle while cycling to school on September 22 in Turin, local activists and academics are calling for a radical overhaul of the city's urban mobility model.

An open letter addressed to Mayor Stefano Lo Russo, signed by officials from the University of Turin including Rector Cristina Prandi, argues for a shift in public space management. The letter emphasizes that a city is truly safe only when children can move autonomously, citing the Netherlands as a benchmark for quality of life.

In a separate demonstration, over 300 people gathered in front of the City Hall to demand improved road safety. Organized by groups such as Fiab Bike Pride and Città delle Persone, the protest featured a symbolic ringing of bicycle bells. Representatives from various organizations met with Mayor Lo Russo and Councilor for Mobility Chiara Foglietta to discuss systemic changes to ensure streets are safe for cyclists, pedestrians, and vulnerable populations rather than being designed solely for automobiles.