Personal trainer dies after being hit by lightning riding bike on solo trip
The owner of a popular cocktail bar has tragically died after being struck by lightning while riding his motorbike.
Marco Zampilli was heading to the beach when a violent thunderstorm suddenly broke out and he was thrown from his BMW motorbike when he was struck by a lightning bolt causing an electric shock. He was found unresponsive on state road 275, between Nociglia and Surano, in Italy's Lecce province. People rushed to his aid and tried to resuscitate him while waiting for police and paramedics, but when responders arrived, there was nothing they could do.
The tragedy happened on Sunday morning (August 17). Marco, 42, lived in Rome but had travelled to Italy's "heel" a few days earlier for a short holiday on his own.
The accident happened near a memorial stone to another victim who had died in the same way years earlier. Marco co-owned a cocktail bar in Rome and was also a certified personal trainer.
His Ru.de bar had hundreds of positive reviews on Facebook and was recommended by 74% of visitors. "Top. Cocktails of the best quality. Thank you Marco for your professionalism and friendliness," wrote one person.
Another said: "Very nice place, friendly staff, helpful and cordial! I booked the same day (Saturday) for 14 and they had no problem settling us in, despite the place being full. Such a great experience! Very delicious cocktails ! Recommended!"
Affectionately known by his friends as Marcolino, he was passionate about motorbikes and Roma football club. He had lost his father - a pastry chef - around five months before his death, as reported by NeedToKnow.
An online fundraiser has been launched to help Marco's family transport his body from Lecce to Rome, cover funeral costs, and close down his business.
Denise wrote: "We met what feels like a lifetime ago - you with your cheeky grin and your big heart. You were always there for everyone. Your laugh was impossible to miss, and when you had something to say, nothing could stop you. That's how I'll remember you, my friend - strong as ever, with those eyes that could look straight into your soul. Goodbye, Boss."
The GoFundMe page has raised more than £31,000 so far. It states: Hi everyone, this fundraiser has been organized to help Marco's family raise the necessary money to transport Marco's body home (from Lecce to Rome), for the funeral and for the business being closed (Rude Centocelle). Anyone who wants to contribute to support the cause can do so through this collection. Even a little help can go a long way, thanks in advance."
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