Young Man Shot Dead in Palermo After Intervening in Bar Fight

Tragic Intervention in Palermo Nightlife

Palermo, Italy – A 21-year-old man, identified as Paolo Taormina, was shot and killed in the early hours of Saturday, October 12, 2025, after he intervened in a fight at a bar owned by his parents. The tragic incident occurred around 3:30 a.m. near the Teatro Massimo, a popular nightlife area in Palermo, specifically at the 'O Scruscio' bar, also known as 'Champagneria'.

According to initial reconstructions, a group of youths began fighting among the tables of the bar. Taormina reportedly stepped in to calm the situation and appeared to have successfully broken up the altercation. However, one of the individuals involved in the fight allegedly pulled out a gun and fired a shot at close range, striking Taormina in the forehead. The group then fled the scene on scooters.

Arrest and Confession of Suspect

Following the shooting, law enforcement initiated an immediate investigation. Authorities later arrested Gaetano Maranzano, a 28-year-old man from the Zen neighborhood of Palermo, in the Uditore neighborhood. Maranzano reportedly confessed to the crime when tracked down by the Carabinieri at his home on Via Nino Geraci.

Maranzano provided a version of events to investigators, claiming that Taormina had previously harassed his partner. He stated that upon seeing Taormina, he 'lost control' and shot him. Investigators are currently working to verify this account.

Ongoing Investigation and Background

The investigation into Taormina's death is ongoing. Carabinieri are analyzing surveillance camera footage from the numerous establishments in the area and interviewing dozens of witnesses. The murder, which occurred in front of many young people, was reportedly captured on video. During a search, a pistol was found on Maranzano, though it has not yet been confirmed if it is the weapon used in the homicide.

Reports indicate that Gaetano Maranzano was known on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, where he had posted videos and photographs featuring necklaces with gun and rifle pendants. One of his recent posts reportedly included images from a film dedicated to notorious Mafia boss Totò Riina.