Venice water taxi driver tests positive for traces of alcohol and drugs

Investigations into the fatal collision in the Venice lagoon between a water taxi and a small boat have revealed traces of alcohol and drugs in the taxi driver's blood and urine. While authorities noted these are traces rather than high levels, further analysis has been ordered to confirm the findings. The incident, which occurred in the Tessera Channel on September 13, resulted in the deaths of Sean Michieli and Gabriella Querino Elorriaga, a couple who had been married for three months.

Prosecutor Daniela Moroni is leading the investigation into charges of nautical homicide and culpable shipwreck. Experts are scheduled to begin analyzing the dynamics of the accident on September 24. Additionally, an international rogatory request has been filed to interview two American passengers who were on the taxi at the time of the crash.

Amid the legal proceedings, the owner of the water taxi has applied to the Venice Municipality Mobility Office to transfer the transport license. This move may impact potential compensation claims for the victims' families. The driver has claimed he did not see the smaller boat in the darkness.