Suspect arrested as autopsy reveals Italian journalist was alive when burned
A 26-year-old suspect has confessed to killing Italian journalist Luca Esposito, as autopsy results show the victim was still alive when set on fire.
Italian authorities have arrested a 26-year-old Tunisian national, identified as Ridha Rahmouni, in connection with the murder of 53-year-old sports journalist Luigi "Luca" Esposito in Eboli. Police located the suspect in an abandoned farmhouse after matching a fingerprint found on the victim's vehicle. Authorities also recovered Esposito's mobile phone and credit card at the location.
Autopsy findings indicate Esposito was still alive when his body was set on fire using blankets, brushwood, and plastic materials.
While the Salerno prosecutor's office stated the crime followed a severe argument arising from unspecified motives, reports indicate the suspect confessed during questioning, claiming he attacked Esposito after feeling pressured by unwanted sexual advances. The arrest follows earlier revelations concerning Esposito's fabricated personal life.
Sources: Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero
Sources
- Il Messaggero — Luca Esposito, svolta nel caso del giornalista ucciso a Eboli: fermato un uomo, era nascosto in casolare abbandonato
- Corriere della Sera — Il delitto del giornalista Luca Esposito: confessa un 26enne, era nascosto in un casolare. Per bruciarlo ha usato coperte, sterpaglie e materiale plastico
Earlier coverage
- Jul 25, 2026, 02:30 PM UTCInvestigators probe fabricated personal details of slain Italian journalist Luca Esposito
- Jul 25, 2026, 01:30 PM UTCItalian police arrest suspect following murder of journalist Luca Esposito