Colombian authorities have launched a murder investigation after the dismembered body of an Italian scientist was found inside a suitcase in a stream near Santa Marta, a popular tourist city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
The victim, 42-year-old Alessandro Coatti, had recently arrived in the city after traveling through South America. He was reported missing on April 4, just one day after checking into a local hostel. Police discovered parts of his body—his head, arms, and legs—on April 5. His torso remains missing.
Detectives identified Coatti through a bracelet that linked him to the hostel in Santa Marta’s historic center, where he had been staying. According to staff, he had been interested in visiting Minca, a mountainous region nearby, to observe local wildlife.
Coatti, affectionately known as “Ale” among colleagues and friends, had worked for the UK’s Royal Society of Biology (RSB) for eight years. He left the organization in late 2024 to pursue volunteer work in Ecuador and explore the biodiversity of South America.
“There is no evidence that he had any criminal ties,” said Col. Jaime Ríos Puerto of the Santa Marta police. “He was a visitor, a scientist, with no suspicious connections.”
Santa Marta mayor Carlos Pinedo Cuello announced a reward of 50 million pesos (approx. £10,000) for information leading to an arrest. “This crime will not go unpunished,” he stated. “We will pursue those responsible until justice is served.”
