A 19-year-old football referee died after his car crashed and burst into flames, trapping him inside.
Francesco Marrocco lost control of his Chevrolet Spark while driving home from a post-work meet-up with friends.
He first collided with a low wall beside the road, causing the vehicle to overturn into an olive grove just yards from his home.
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The car finally came to a stop when it hit a tree and ignited, but Francesco was unable to escape.
The horrifying scene was discovered by his father, Mauro, who became concerned when his son failed to return home or answer his phone.
Shortly after hearing a loud bang, he rushed into the street and found the flaming car with Francesco inside on Sunday (7 Sept) morning.
Emergency services were called immediately. Firefighters extinguished the flames, but paramedics could only confirm the teenager’s death.
The tragedy unfolded in Cassino, between Rome and Naples, Italy, as reported by Need To Know.
The cause of the accident is unclear, though local media have suggested a sudden illness or microsleep.
Francesco had been working at a local restaurant after leaving school in July. He was also a football referee and a devoted Roma fan.
He had studied aeronautical construction and had secured a place in the Air Force, but had delayed joining in order to continue officiating football matches.
Antonio Zappi, president of the Italian Referees Association, paid tribute: “A tragic accident has taken from us this young man, whom everyone described as wonderful.
“I truly hope that beyond death there is still life, so we can meet again on the playing fields of Heaven.”
Francesco is also survived by his mother, Tania.
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