Inter Milan goalkeeper Josep Martinez was involved in a tragic accident on Tuesday morning that claimed the life of an 81-year-old man in a wheelchair.
The heartbreaking incident took place in Fenegro, a quiet town in the province of Como, as the 27-year-old Spaniard was driving to the club’s training base at Appiano Gentile.
Inter goalkeeper involved in fatal accident
According to reports from La Repubblica, the accident occurred around 9:40 a.m. on Via Bergamo. Martinez’s vehicle reportedly struck the elderly man, who was traveling in an electric wheelchair.
Emergency responders, including an ambulance, a helicopter rescue unit, and local police, arrived promptly at the scene. Despite their rapid intervention, the victim was pronounced dead shortly after due to the severity of his injuries.
Early investigations by the Carabinieri suggest the man may have suffered a sudden medical episode before veering into the path of the oncoming vehicle. Authorities are now reconstructing the sequence of events to establish the precise cause of the collision.
Eyewitness accounts paint a deeply distressing scene. Reports indicate that the elderly man may have suddenly changed direction, crossing into the opposite lane, as cited by GOAL.
Martinez immediately stopped his car, rushed to assist the victim, and attempted to provide first aid while waiting for paramedics.
Police officials later confirmed that the Inter goalkeeper was “fully cooperative and visibly shaken,” remaining at the site as formal procedures were carried out.
Inter Milan reacts to heartbreaking incident
In light of the tragedy, Inter Milan cancelled a pre-match press conference scheduled for Tuesday afternoon with head coach Cristian Chivu, who was expected to speak ahead of their Serie A fixture against Fiorentina.
The decision reflects the somber mood within the club and the emotional toll the incident has taken on both Martinez and his teammates.
As investigations continue, no official statement has yet been released by the player. The incident has cast a shadow over preparations at Appiano Gentile, reminding the football world that even in moments of routine, tragedy can strike without warning.