Francesco Aronica, 23, died on Sunday (18) after jumping from a cliff in Polignano a Mare, a tourist destination in the Puglia region, southern Italy. The young man was originally from Sicily and was on vacation with friends.
According to local authorities, he lost consciousness shortly after hitting the water and suffered severe head trauma. Francesco was rescued alive and taken to the hospital, but succumbed to his injuries.
Aronica was a member of an American football team in Catania. His death caused shock in the city and the sports community.
"I waited until the last moment to avoid having to confirm this news, in vain," said Mayor Vito Carrieri. "In this moment of profound pain and sadness, my only thoughts are with Francesco's family."
Polignano a Mare is famous for its cliffs and turquoise waters. Cliff diving is popular with tourists, despite the risks.
In recent years, local authorities have warned about the dangers of the practice, especially in unsupervised areas.
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