Luigi Cavallari, husband of Family Minister Eugenia Roccella, is currently the subject of an active search and rescue operation in Lake Vico, located in the province of Viterbo. The alarm was raised at approximately 5:30 p.m. on Saturday after Cavallari disappeared during a recreational outing. Emergency teams, including the Viterbo fire department, carabinieri divers, and aerial support, are currently scouring the area in the Fiorò locality.
The Circumstances of the Disappearance
According to reports, Cavallari had boarded a small, unanchored boat with Minister Roccella. He reportedly entered the water to cool off, but after resurfacing, he indicated that he was not feeling well. The boat drifted away from him before he could be reached by those on board. The incident occurred in view of several swimmers and patrons at a nearby restaurant, who witnessed the events unfolding just meters from the shore.
Ongoing Search Efforts
Authorities have mobilized a significant response to locate the missing professor. The operation is being coordinated by the Vicar of the Prefect of Viterbo, Andrea Nino Caputo, alongside provincial carabinieri commander Alfredo Antro and questore Giorgio Di Munno. Investigators have conducted technical surveys of the boat involved in the incident. Search efforts are expected to continue as long as visibility remains sufficient for the teams, which include specialized personnel brought in by helicopter.
Luigi Cavallari and Minister Eugenia Roccella celebrated their golden wedding anniversary this past March. The couple, who have two children, had been married since 1976.
The geography of Italy’s volcanic lakes presents environmental hazards that complicate rescue operations. These bodies of water are known for sudden, sharp thermal drops and intense internal currents. Similar incidents, such as the fatal accident involving a 66-year-old canoeist in Lake Bolsena this past February and a near-drowning in Lake Trevignano in April, highlight the risks associated with these environments.
What Happens Next
Search teams will likely continue their systematic perusal of the lake until visibility conditions force a pause. Once the search concludes, the carabinieri of Ronciglione are expected to finalize their reconstruction of the events. In the interim, Minister Roccella has been moved to the couple’s residence in the Viterbo area, and regional officials, including President Francesco Rocca, have publicly expressed support for the family during this period of uncertainty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Luigi Cavallari?
Luigi Cavallari is a well-known academic and professor of Architecture, formerly associated with the Gabriele d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, where he directed the department of Technologies of the Built Environment.
How did the disappearance occur?
According to information released, Cavallari jumped from a small boat to swim. After resurfacing, he reported feeling unwell, but the boat—which was not anchored—drifted away before he could be retrieved.
Who is coordinating the search?
The search is being coordinated by the Vicar of the Prefect of Viterbo, Andrea Nino Caputo, with assistance from the carabinieri, the fire department, and local health services from Ares 118.
How do you view the safety measures currently in place at Italy’s volcanic lakes given the recent history of accidents?
