Two teenagers were killed when one collided with the other while testing a motorbike he was considering buying.
Davide Capuozzo was struck and lifted onto the Yamaha 700 ridden by Andrea Liddi.
Both were left on the tarmac next to their helmets – thrown off in the violent impact – around 50m (55yd) from the point of collision.
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They died instantly, while pillion passenger Alessandro R. was seriously injured on Sunday (4 Jan) morning.
Alessandro, 20, was rushed to a local hospital, where he was treated for extensive cuts and abrasions. He is now out of danger.
The crash occurred on a service road on the outskirts of Bari, Italy, reportedly a popular spot for local youths to race motorbikes.
Authorities have seized Andrea’s Yamaha, and skid marks suggest the bike was travelling at more than 130km/h (81mph).
Local media reports suggest Andrea, 18, may not have seen Davide, 17, who was at the roadside near a bush by a bend.
He may have been bending down to pick something up, possibly a bolt from his own motorbike.
Andrea knew Davide, but had only just met Alessandro that morning, as reported by NeedToKnow.
Andrea was a rising star in swimming, competing at national level and winning several medals.
The Bari University Sports Centre (Cus Bari), where he was registered, paid tribute: “A bright and determined young man who stood out not only for his sporting commitment but also for the values he showed every day.
“His passion for swimming, dedication to training, and the respect he showed to teammates, coaches and opponents will remain forever in the hearts of the entire Cus Bari family.”
He had also recently joined the Italian Navy.
Davide was a high-achieving pupil in his final year of school with plans for higher education.
His teacher, Lucia Ponzone, said: “People say it about everyone, but Davide truly was a good boy. We are all deeply heartbroken by his loss.”
Prosecutors have opened a case for causing death by dangerous driving.
