Scottish Tourist Dies Following Gas Explosion in Rome
Grant Paterson, 54, succumbs to injuries from explosion that destroyed a B&B in Monteverde.
A Scottish tourist, Grant Paterson, aged 54, from East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire, has died following a gas explosion that resulted in the destruction of a three-storey bed and breakfast in the Monteverde district of Rome.
The explosion occurred at approximately 8:30 AM on March 22, causing severe burns to Mr. Paterson, who was subsequently rescued from the rubble and transported to Sant’Eugenio hospital.
Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries, confirmed by his employer, CalMac, on Tuesday.
Witnesses described the incident as a loud explosion, with significant structural damage not only to the B&B but also to parts of the nearby Villa Pamphili.
Mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri, inspected the site and announced a full investigation into the explosion, indicating that early findings suggest it was gas-related.
Prior to the incident, Mr. Paterson shared moments of his trip on social media, highlighting visits to iconic Roman landmarks, including the Colosseum and the Pantheon.
A fundraiser established to support his family has raised over £11,000.
Colleagues at CalMac expressed their condolences, describing Mr. Paterson as a cherished member of the team, known for his warm personality and dedication during his 12-year tenure with the company.
Diane Burke, the chief operating officer of CalMac, offered heartfelt remarks about Mr. Paterson’s character and his contributions to the vessel MV Clansman, emphasizing his popularity among crew and passengers.
Meanwhile, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has stated that they are assisting the family of the deceased tourist and coordinating with local authorities regarding the case.
The explosion occurred at approximately 8:30 AM on March 22, causing severe burns to Mr. Paterson, who was subsequently rescued from the rubble and transported to Sant’Eugenio hospital.
Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries, confirmed by his employer, CalMac, on Tuesday.
Witnesses described the incident as a loud explosion, with significant structural damage not only to the B&B but also to parts of the nearby Villa Pamphili.
Mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri, inspected the site and announced a full investigation into the explosion, indicating that early findings suggest it was gas-related.
Prior to the incident, Mr. Paterson shared moments of his trip on social media, highlighting visits to iconic Roman landmarks, including the Colosseum and the Pantheon.
A fundraiser established to support his family has raised over £11,000.
Colleagues at CalMac expressed their condolences, describing Mr. Paterson as a cherished member of the team, known for his warm personality and dedication during his 12-year tenure with the company.
Diane Burke, the chief operating officer of CalMac, offered heartfelt remarks about Mr. Paterson’s character and his contributions to the vessel MV Clansman, emphasizing his popularity among crew and passengers.
Meanwhile, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has stated that they are assisting the family of the deceased tourist and coordinating with local authorities regarding the case.
