A tragic cable car accident near Naples has claimed the lives of four people, including a British couple and an Israeli woman. The crash occurred when a supporting cable snapped, causing the cabin to plunge to the ground on Thursday afternoon.
Local authorities confirmed that the victims included three passengers and the operator of the cable car. The driver, identified as a 59-year-old man, was among those killed. A fifth individual, believed to be another tourist, sustained critical injuries and was airlifted to a nearby hospital. Their condition has since stabilized, according to rescue services.
The incident took place on the Mount Faito cable car line, which transports visitors between the town of Castellammare di Stabia and the summit of the mountain. The cable car system has been in operation since 1952 and spans approximately three kilometers. It is a popular attraction, especially during spring and summer months, offering scenic views of the surrounding area.
At the time of the crash, another cabin was on the line, closer to the base of the mountain. Sixteen people were rescued from that cabin in a dramatic operation, during which emergency crews used winches to bring them to safety. None of those rescued were reported to be injured.
Authorities in Torre Annunziata have launched a criminal investigation into the cause of the accident. According to officials, preliminary findings suggest that a traction cable snapped as the cabin approached the summit. Although the emergency braking system worked at the base, it failed to engage for the ascending cabin, leading to the fatal fall.
The cable car operator stated that the system had recently undergone a routine safety inspection just two weeks before the incident. The revelation has intensified public concern and raised questions about the effectiveness and frequency of such inspections. Officials have pledged a full inquiry to determine whether there was any negligence or failure in safety protocols.
The identities of the deceased have not yet been formally released. However, authorities confirmed the presence of a British couple among the victims. The UK Foreign Office has been in contact with Italian officials and is offering consular support to those affected. It refrained from confirming the identities of the British nationals involved.
A spokesperson for the town’s mayor stated that safety checks on the cable car had been conducted regularly, with no issues reported prior to the incident. The mayor also expressed sorrow over the tragedy and emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to prevent future occurrences.
The news has shocked both locals and tourists in the region. The cable car is a cherished local institution, having been part of the town’s identity for over 70 years. Though considered safe, it had previously been the site of another fatal accident in 1960, which also resulted in the deaths of four people.
The incident has drawn national attention, prompting condolences from senior officials. Italy’s Prime Minister, who was abroad at the time of the crash, expressed heartfelt sympathies to the families of those killed. The government has indicated it will closely monitor the investigation’s progress and take any necessary action following its findings.
As the community mourns, efforts continue to support the injured and the families of the victims, while investigators work to uncover the full circumstances behind this devastating accident.
