Romanian man killed in explosion in Italy as investigators suspect ATM device preparation

An explosion in a rural area near Andria, in southern Italy, killed two men who investigators suspect may have been preparing an explosive device to break into ATMs. One victim was Romanian and about 40 years old. The other was an Italian man of a similar age from southern Foggia province.

The blast occurred while the men may have been handling explosive materials, according to one of the main investigative leads. Authorities are examining whether they were trying to make a device known in Italy as a “marmotta,” which criminal groups use to force open ATMs and automated cash machines at banks or post offices. The theory has not been officially confirmed.

Investigators obtained preliminary clues about the men’s identities by examining fingerprints, distinctive marks and other items found at the scene, including what may have been an earring. Their identities will be officially confirmed after autopsies at the Policlinico hospital in Bari. Medical, fingerprint and genetic examinations, including DNA testing, are also under way.

The Italian victim’s family had reported him missing before authorities linked him to the explosion. The investigation is being coordinated by the Trani Prosecutor’s Office and remains open against unidentified individuals. Prosecutors are trying to determine where the explosives came from and reconstruct the moments before the blast.

A Ford Kuga reported stolen was found near the villa, which belongs to a 77-year-old man who has drawn the authorities’ attention. Investigators have not established any connection between him and the explosion. They are still working to determine what the two men were doing in the area, where the explosives came from and whether they intended to attack an ATM.