News

Carabiniere killed in Rome had been a volunteer with the Order since 2009

Grand Master condemns ‘this vile act’

Rome, 29 July 2019

Carabiniere Mario Rega on pilgrimage in Loreto

The Order of Malta expresses its heartfelt condolences for the murder of the 35 year-old policeman (carabiniere), Mario Cerciello Rega, during the night between 25 and 26 July in the Prati district of Rome. He had been a volunteer for the Order of Malta’s Roma Delegation since 2009, distributing meals to the homeless and the vulnerable in Rome’s main railway stations – Termini and Tiburtina. His constant and regular commitment was carried out with such dedication and passion that he was awarded a Merito Melitense decoration in 2013.

Recognition of commitment to the Order’s works for vulnerable people in Rome

The then Grand Prior of Rome, Fra’ Giacomo Dalla Torre del Tempio di Sanguinetto, currently Grand Master of the Order of Malta, on awarding the much merited decoration, praised his dedication: “…he always participated in the twice-weekly distribution of food in the late evening, in critical areas of Rome such as the major railway stations where needy and marginalised people tend to collect.”

Today Grand Master Fra’Giacomo Dalla Torre stated: “This is a terrible bereavement for the entire community. We have lost a generous and dedicated man, animated by a profound sense of responsibility. The Order of Malta offers its deepest sympathy to the family of Mario Cerciello Rega and condemns this vile act of violence.”

Mario Cerciello Rega had participated in the Order of Malta’s pilgrimages to Lourdes and Loreto with his wife, also a volunteer with the Order, where he assisted the sick.