Antonio Villani, a State Police officer serving with the DIGOS unit of the Avellino police headquarters, died on 18 October 2026 on the E45 near Borello, in the Cesena area, while taking part in the escort operation for Avellino supporters travelling to Cesena.

Italy’s Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi expressed grief over Villani’s death and offered sympathy to his family, his colleagues, and the State Police. In his message, Piantedosi recalled Villani’s professionalism, dedication, and human qualities.

What happened on the E45

According to local reporting, Villani was waiting at the Letizia service area in Borello for the arrival of Avellino supporters headed to Cesena when he was struck and killed.

Il Resto del Carlino reported that an SUV lost control and hit the officer. AvellinoToday reported that Villani died on the E45 near Borello during the escort of the Avellino supporters and noted that the exact circumstances were still being clarified.

The validated research does not establish a single confirmed reconstruction of the crash. One account describes a vehicle out of control; another account states that inquiries were still under way at the time of reporting. There is also no official investigative statement in the acquired sources concerning any possible criminal charge against the driver.

A second police officer was injured in the incident and taken to the Bufalini hospital in Cesena, according to Il Resto del Carlino.

Reactions from Avellino

Alongside the Interior Minister’s condolences, Angelo Antonio D’Agostino, president of Avellino, expressed condolences for Villani’s death.

The reports place the death in the context of the Cesena–Avellino football fixture. The match ended 1–1, according to AvellinoToday.

What is confirmed and what remains unclear

Confirmed by the research:

  • The deceased was Antonio Villani, a State Police officer with the Avellino police headquarters and DIGOS.
  • The incident occurred on the E45 near Borello, in the Cesena area, during the escort of Avellino supporters travelling to Cesena.
  • Minister Matteo Piantedosi publicly expressed condolences and sympathy to the family, colleagues, and State Police.
  • A second officer was injured and transported to Cesena’s Bufalini hospital.
  • The president of Avellino joined in the public condolences.

Still unclear from the acquired sources:

  • The precise dynamics of the vehicle movement that caused the death.
  • Whether investigators have issued an official finding on driver responsibility.
  • Villani’s full biographical and career details, including age and hierarchical role beyond his service with the Avellino DIGOS.

Readers following further developments should look for an official statement from the investigating authorities on the reconstruction of the incident.