In a tragic incident, Vito Procacci, the esteemed head of the emergency department at Bari's Policlinico, passed away while on vacation in Gallipoli.

The 65-year-old doctor, known for his dedication during the COVID-19 pandemic, suffered a sudden illness during a nighttime swim at the Purità beach.

Despite immediate medical efforts, he could not be revived.

Procacci was celebrated for his commitment to transforming emergency care into a welcoming environment and was a vocal advocate during the pandemic, even facing penalties for excessive work hours.

His passing leaves a significant void in the medical community, with colleagues remembering him as a compassionate and skilled professional.

His brother, Giovanni Procacci, a former parliamentarian, and other family members expressed their profound loss, highlighting Vito's joyful spirit and dedication to his work.