Termoli, Italy – A simple message, posted in the early hours of Thursday morning, brought a collective sigh of relief to this coastal town. “Sono un po’ acciaccato, è proprio il caso di dirlo, ma sono vivo” – “I’m a bit banged up, to say the least, but I’m alive” – read the post from Fernando De Angelis, owner of the Café de Paris, which partially collapsed on Wednesday. The message, shared on social media, marked the first public word from De Angelis since the incident and quickly spread through Termoli, a community now united in support for the man credited with potentially saving lives during the crisis.
The collapse of the Café de Paris, a popular gathering spot on Via Abruzzi, sent shockwaves through Termoli. While the cause of the structural failure is still under investigation, initial reports suggest a sudden and unexpected giving way of the ceiling. De Angelis, according to multiple eyewitness accounts, noticed warning signs – a creaking sound, an unsettling shift – and immediately urged patrons to evacuate. His quick thinking is believed to have prevented a far greater tragedy.
De Angelis, 62, sustained significant injuries in the collapse and was initially treated at the San Timoteo hospital in Termoli before being transferred to the Neuromed hospital in Pozzilli for specialized care. Doctors have confirmed he suffered fractures to two vertebrae, his tibia and fibula, and several ribs. He underwent surgery on his leg and faces an estimated 40 days of recovery, a challenging road ahead, but one he appears determined to navigate with his characteristic resilience.
The outpouring of support for De Angelis has been remarkable. Friends, family, regular customers, and even strangers have flooded social media with messages of hope and encouragement. The Café de Paris, more than just a business, has become a symbol of community in Termoli, and its owner a local hero. The incident has sparked a wave of solidarity, demonstrating the close-knit nature of this Molise region town.
A Community Rallies Around a Local Landmark
The Café de Paris has been a fixture in Termoli for decades, a place where locals gather for coffee, conversation, and connection. The sudden collapse has left a visible void in the town’s landscape, but the response has been anything but defeated. “Fernando is the heart of this place,” said Maria Rossi, a longtime customer, in a statement to local media. “He knows everyone by name, always has a kind word, and makes you feel like family. We are all praying for his speedy recovery.”
The municipality of Termoli has offered its full support to De Angelis and his family, and an investigation into the cause of the collapse is underway. Local authorities are working to secure the site and assess the structural integrity of neighboring buildings. The focus, yet, remains firmly on De Angelis’s recovery and the well-being of the community.
Eyewitness Accounts Detail a Swift Response
Several individuals present at the Café de Paris on Wednesday morning have recounted the dramatic events leading up to the collapse. “We heard a cracking sound, and Fernando immediately told us to get out,” recalled Antonio Bianchi, a local businessman who was having coffee at the café. “He didn’t panic, he was calm and collected. He just said, ‘Let’s travel, quickly.’ Seconds later, the roof came down.”
Another witness, Elena Greco, described a similar scene. “He was incredibly brave. He didn’t consider about himself, he just focused on getting everyone to safety. It all happened so prompt, but his quick thinking undoubtedly saved lives.” These accounts underscore De Angelis’s composure and decisive action in a moment of crisis.
The Investigation and Future of the Café
The precise cause of the collapse remains under investigation by local authorities and structural engineers. Preliminary assessments suggest potential issues with the building’s aging infrastructure, but a comprehensive analysis is needed to determine the root cause. Images from the scene show significant damage to the café’s interior, with debris and rubble scattered throughout the area.
The future of the Café de Paris remains uncertain. The building will need to undergo extensive repairs, and it is unclear when, or if, it will be able to reopen. However, the overwhelming support from the community suggests a strong desire to observe the beloved café restored to its former glory. The municipality has pledged to assist with the rebuilding process, and fundraising efforts are already underway.
A Message of Hope and Resilience
De Angelis’s brief but powerful message – “Sono un po’ acciaccato, è proprio il caso di dirlo, ma sono vivo” – has resonated deeply with the people of Termoli. It’s a testament to the human spirit, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, hope and resilience can prevail. His words have not only provided relief to a worried community but have also underscored the importance of human connection and the strength of collective support.
As De Angelis begins his long recovery, the community of Termoli stands united behind him, offering their prayers, encouragement, and unwavering support. The next update on his condition is expected from the Neuromed hospital next week, and authorities anticipate releasing a preliminary report on the structural investigation within the coming weeks. The story of the Café de Paris is far from over, and its future will undoubtedly be shaped by the spirit of the man at its heart.
We encourage readers to share their thoughts and well wishes for Fernando De Angelis in the comments below. Your support can make a difference.
