British Couple Among Fatalities in Naples Cable Car Crash

A British couple has died in a cable car incident near Naples. The couple, from Market Harborough in Leicestershire, were reportedly part of a local bikers group. An Israeli national also died, and a fifth person, believed to be a foreign tourist, was seriously injured. Initial reports indicate that a traction cable snapped, causing the cable cars to stop. Several individuals had to be rescued from another cable car.

The British couple, identified as Graeme Winn, 65, and Elaine Winn, 58, have been pictured for the first time. They were among the four fatalities in the crash that occurred on Thursday at Monte Faito, near Castellammare di Stabia, Italy, according to a spokesperson for the local mayor’s office.

Italian prosecutors have launched an investigation, considering charges of multiple manslaughter and culpable disaster. Vincenzo De Luca, president of Campania, described the day as "truly tragic and painful" and expressed his condolences. The mayor of Castellammare, Luigi Vicinanza Sindaco, announced a day of mourning and the cancellation of Easter holiday events.

Emergency services, including firefighters, police, and Italy’s alpine rescue, were dispatched to the scene, which is situated between the popular tourist destinations of Pompeii and Sorrento. The EAV public transport firm, which operates the cable car, stated that the service had resumed a week prior, meeting all required safety standards. Investigators are examining the cable car and considering the possibility that strong winds contributed to the incident.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni offered her condolences from Washington DC, where she was meeting with US President Donald Trump. A British tourist witnessed people being rescued from a cable car using a harness after the incident. Megan Pacey, from London, described the scene and the sense of urgency as people were being rescued. She also noted the presence of flowers and candles at the railway station the following day.

A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office spokesperson confirmed that they are assisting the families of the deceased British couple and are in contact with local authorities.