Child Dies After Receiving Damaged Heart Transplant; Investigation Launched

Society

Italy

A two-year-old boy named Domenico died in a Naples hospital following a heart transplant performed in December 2025, after it was discovered the donated heart was damaged during transport. The judiciary has opened an investigation into involuntary manslaughter.

Key points

  • The transplant involved a heart transported from Bolzano to Naples.
  • The organ was reportedly transported by an untrained team in an improper container using dry ice.
  • Medics involved in the organ transport are under investigation.
  • The child was first on the transplant list, but his condition rapidly deteriorated, preventing a second transplant.
  • The prosecutor's office, led by Deputy Prosecutor Antonio Ricci, arrived at the hospital after the death.

Why it matters

The death of the child following a transplant involving a damaged organ has shocked Italian public opinion and prompted investigations by the judiciary and the Ministry of Health.

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