How does a peaceful journey through South America end in a gruesome mystery?
That’s the question haunting both Colombia and Italy after the shocking death of Italian scientist Alessandro Coatti in Santa Marta.
The 35-year-old biologist had been soaking up the coastal beauty of Colombia’s Tayrona region.
It was part of a solo adventure through Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and now—heartbreakingly—his final stop.
Authorities were alerted when human remains were found scattered across three locations.
A bracelet helped identify Coatti—but so far, only parts of his body have been recovered.
What Happened?
No one knows yet. “It is not yet known what occurred or where,” Colombia’s prosecutor’s office admitted.
Local officials have labeled it a homicide and are offering a reward of 50 million pesos for any leads.
Back in Europe, Coatti’s former colleagues at the Royal Society of Biology remember him fondly.
They described him as “funny, warm, intelligent… a passionate and dedicated scientist.”
He had only recently left his post in London to explore the world.
Now, with Italian and Colombian investigators working together, all eyes are on Santa Marta.
A scientist set out chasing wonder. What he found instead has left two nations searching for answers—and justice.
