Naples, February 14 – A 17-year-old from Naples has been placed in a community facility following an arrest for attempted aggravated arson. The measure, signed by the juvenile investigating judge, stems from an incident believed to be an act of retaliation against a friend who had confessed to his involvement in the stabbing of young footballer Bruno Petrone.
Arson Attempt Targets Confessor’s Alleged Home
The incident took place overnight between January 11 and 12. According to investigations, the teenager allegedly doused the entrance of a house on Via Carlo De Marco with flammable liquid, believing it to be the residence of the friend who had cooperated with authorities. He then attempted to ignite the liquid with matches. Fortunately, the flames did not spread, and no injuries were reported. It was later discovered that the intended target resided in a nearby apartment, not the one attacked.
Surveillance Footage and Instagram Post Crucial to Investigation
Surveillance cameras captured the entire scene, providing crucial evidence. Carabinieri from the Naples Centro company, coordinated by the Public Prosecutor’s Office for Minors, meticulously analyzed the footage, reconstructed the suspect’s movements, and gathered witness testimonies. A joint inspection with firefighters confirmed the potential for a tragic outcome, highlighting how quickly the flames could have spread.
Adding to the evidence, approximately an hour after the arson attempt, at 3:06 AM on January 12, the suspect posted on Instagram: “He doesn’t talk to anyone, he must suffer like an informer.” This message is being interpreted by investigators as a clear indication of the retaliatory motive.
The Stabbing of Bruno Petrone: A Case of Old Grievances
The attempted arson is directly linked to the stabbing of 18-year-old footballer Bruno Petrone, which occurred overnight between December 26 and 27 in the Chiaia bar area. Petrone’s life was at risk following the attack. Four minors have been detained for attempted murder in connection with the stabbing, with a fifth reported on probation. These individuals, aged between 15 and 17, surrendered to authorities with their lawyers and provided their accounts of the incident.
Initially, the aggressors claimed a random encounter between two scooter groups on Via Bisignano, suggesting the stabbing was an unfortunate accident. However, the ongoing investigation has revealed a different narrative: long-standing animosities and unresolved conflicts between a 15-year-old and Petrone, reignited by a previous altercation just days before the stabbing. This simmering tension escalated into violence on that fateful night. The young aggressor reportedly expressed regret, stating, “I’m sorry,” while admitting his involvement.
Confession Leads to Retaliation in Youth Gang Culture
The 15-year-old who voluntarily presented himself to the military and named the other alleged accomplices is believed to be the target of the arson attempt. In the distorted logic of youth gangs, such cooperation with authorities can be perceived as an unforgivable offense, warranting punishment. The 17-year-old suspect is scheduled to be interrogated by the investigating judge in the coming days.
Bruno Petrone’s Recovery and Hopes for the Future
Meanwhile, Bruno Petrone is making a steady recovery. His parents, Cristian and Dorotea, are closely monitoring his progress. Having played for Serie C with Sorrento and Eccellenza with Angri, Petrone’s sole focus, he has stated, is to return to the field. Doctors have reassured him that this will happen, emphasizing that it is only a matter of time.
This incident underscores the complex and often dangerous dynamics within certain youth groups in Naples, where perceived slights and cooperation with law enforcement can lead to violent acts of revenge.
