The manager of a famous cafe has died in a tragic motorboat crash.
Anna Rita Panebianco hit her head against the boat before losing consciousness when the vessel hit a wooden structure.
The 56-year-old, who managed Caffe Florian in Venice, the oldest cafe in Italy, was rushed to hospital but was unable to be saved.
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Two of Anna’s friends were also injured in the smash.
They are currently in hospital but are expected to make a full recovery, as reported by Need To Know.
The pals were taking advantage of a sunny day in a lagoon between Ca Noghera and Torcello, near Venice when the incident happened at around 4:30pm on Saturday (8 Mar).
A passing boat witnessed the accident and raised the alarm.
The Torcello fire brigade attended the scene.
In a clip of the rescue attempt, a team can be seen descending onto the boat via a helicopter to assist those on board.
Anna’s death has left her local community heartbroken.
A Caffe Florian spokesperson said: “The news came like a stab in the heart.
“Anna Rita Panebianco, a colleague and a friend, left us cruelly and unexpectedly.
“With a broken heart and still in disbelief, we all remember her with sincere affection and deep esteem, personal and professional.
“We already miss her smile, intelligence, kindness and her love for Florian, which she shared with us and clients so passionately.
“Forever thankful for what you have given us Anna.”
