Naples Heart Transplant: Boy Dies, Probe Opened for Possible Manslaughter

Transplant Child Dies in Naples: Manslaughter Investigation Launched

The investigation into the death of two-and-a-half-year-old Domenico, who died Saturday, February 21, 2026, after receiving a heart transplant at the Monaldi Hospital in Naples, has taken a new turn. Six doctors are now under investigation for manslaughter, according to the Naples Public Prosecutor’s Office. The child had been in a coma since December 23rd.

The prosecutor’s office initially investigated the case as grievous bodily harm, but upgraded the charges following Domenico’s death. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the precise cause of death and assess any potential medical negligence related to the surgery. The body has been seized as part of the investigation, and the National Anti-Corruption Agency (NAS) has already begun collecting documents and medical records from the hospital.

“I Want Justice”: Mother’s Plea

Domenico’s mother, Patrizia, expressed her anguish and demand for accountability in a statement to the media. “I want justice. I want the truth, the whole truth, now enough is enough. I must have justice for my son, they owe it to me,” she said. Her lawyer, Francesco Petruzzi, indicated they hope the investigation will ultimately lead to charges of voluntary manslaughter, rather than manslaughter through negligence. “From examining the medical records, Notice all the elements to configure intent,” Petruzzi stated.

Missing Information in Medical Records

Petruzzi raised concerns about the completeness of Domenico’s medical records, specifically noting the absence of a perfusion diary. This diary, he explained, would document the circulation during the extracorporeal oxygenation process and pinpoint the exact moment Domenico’s original heart was removed before the transplanted organ was implanted. Petruzzi plans to inform the prosecutor’s office of this discrepancy and request the document be obtained. He also noted a lack of precise timing details in the existing records, which he believes are crucial for understanding the sequence of events.

Government Response and Memorial

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni offered her condolences and urged authorities to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding Domenico’s death. A spontaneous memorial of flowers and cards has sprung up outside the Monaldi Hospital, reflecting the community’s grief.

Foundation to be Established in Domenico’s Memory

Despite her grief, Domenico’s mother is determined to honor his memory by establishing a foundation in his name. “I’m devastated, but I don’t want to stop. Now I have two goals. The first is to get justice, that comes first. I need the truth about my son. The second is to never forget Domenico, and to have something to move forward with,” she said. The foundation will aim to support children with health problems and families affected by medical malpractice.

Investigation Focuses on Organ Transport

Investigators are focusing on the circumstances surrounding the transport of the donor heart from Bolzano to Naples on December 23rd. Concerns have been raised about the use of dry ice instead of traditional refrigeration during the transport, potentially damaging the organ. The team that retrieved the heart from Bolzano reportedly feared traffic delays and began the transplant procedure once they arrived at the hospital.

The Monaldi Hospital’s chief anesthesiologist, Antonio Corcione, stated he had never seen dry ice used for organ transport in his career. He emphasized the importance of proper refrigeration to preserve the organ’s viability.

Questions Remain About Timing and Procedures

The investigation is also examining the timing of events and whether the decision to proceed with the transplant was made before fully assessing the damage to the donor heart. Investigators are reviewing records related to the availability of appropriate transport containers and the procedures followed during the organ retrieval and preservation process.

Community Mourns

The town of Nola, where Domenico’s family resides, is in mourning. A memorial service is planned at the Nola Cathedral, and the community is rallying to support the family. Local residents described Domenico and his mother as kind and well-liked individuals.