A 55-year-old security guard from Brindisi has tragically died while working a freezing night shift at a construction site linked to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Pietro Zantonini reportedly collapsed in the early hours of January 8 as temperatures plunged to –12°C during routine perimeter checks. Despite rapid response from emergency services, he could not be revived.

Authorities suspect a heart attack, but a full investigation and autopsy are underway. The tragedy has renewed concerns about worker safety in extreme weather conditions.