Settimo Torinese, Italy – A Christmas Eve celebration turned into a heartbreaking tragedy for a family in northern Italy when a 47-year-old man choked to death while eating panettone, a traditional Italian sweet bread.
Giovanni Lopez was enjoying lunch with his family in Settimo Torinese when the incident occurred. After eating a piece of panettone, he suddenly collapsed, prompting his relatives to rush to his aid.
“Giovanni, you will always be in our hearts. You were pure, generous and good, even too much,” shared his brother, Domenico Lopez, in a touching tribute on Facebook. “You always thought of others, never yourself.”
Family members immediately called for emergency services, and paramedics arrived at the Lopez home around 2:30 pm on Wednesday. Despite their best efforts to resuscitate him, Giovanni tragically passed away at the scene.
Investigators believe that a piece of candied fruit, a common ingredient in panettone, became lodged in Giovanni’s airways, leading to the fatal choking. A medical examiner later confirmed the cause of death as accidental choking.
Domenico’s heartfelt tribute continued, “I hope the Lord will be good to you, and I hope you have gone to a better life. I love you, my brother.”
The incident serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers of choking, even during festive occasions.
