A teenager has drowned while fetching a ball from the water during a seafront kick-about with his pal.
Simone Currò dived into the sea on Saturday evening (17 May).
But panic quickly set in as the 19-year-old failed to resurface.
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The emergency services were called straight away.
But by the time coastguards arrived, his body had surfaced a short distance from the spot where he had entered the water.
He was taken back to the shore, where paramedics confirmed his death a short while later.
The horror unfolded off the busy Piazza Nettuno south east of Palermo, Sicily, Italy, as reported by Need To Know.
The city’s public prosecutor’s office has opened an investigation into Simone’s tragic death.
Local media say his body may undergo a post-mortem examination.
Simone was a big fan of Catania and Juventus football teams.
A spokesperson from his school said on Sunday (18 May): “Today is a particularly sad day for our school.
“Our dear Simone Currò, a student of class 5N, has passed away suddenly.
“With pain and disbelief, our community extends its deepest sympathy to his family.
“The memory of his smile, his selflessness, and the warmth of his spontaneous gestures will forever remain in all our hearts.”
Giuliana said: “Simone, a wonderful boy – kind, well-mannered, and always full of light.
You’ll stay in my heart forever!”
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