A 37-year-old banker from Turin is being hailed a hero after performing a miraculous catch to save an Italian toddler who fell from her family’s fifth-floor balcony. Mattia Aguzzi’s quick thinking and bravery prevented a tragic accident from turning into a devastating loss.
Italy, Turin, apartment balconies Stock Image
Aguzzi and his girlfriend were on their way to a bread shop in central Turin when they heard screams coming from an upper-floor apartment. A man’s desperate cries for help caught their attention. As Aguzzi looked up, he saw the little girl leaning dangerously over the ledge.
With no time to waste, Aguzzi shouted and tried to get the three-year-old’s attention. However, she didn’t hear him and continued to lean further until she was only holding on with her arms. Aguzzi realized he had to act fast.
Positioning himself below the child, Aguzzi called out for her to stay still and go back inside. But when it became clear that she wouldn’t listen, he braced himself for the impact and prepared to catch her. With his eyes closed, he blocked her fall and cushioned the blow as they both landed on the ground.
After he checked to see if she was still breathing there was both relief and joy.
The girl’s parents, who had rushed to the scene, were in shock but grateful for Aguzzi’s heroic act. Emergency responders quickly arrived and transported the girl to the hospital. Amazingly, she is now reported to be in stable condition.
The mayor of Turin, Stefano Lo Russo, expressed his admiration for Aguzzi and called for him to be honored. Parliamentarian Camilla Laureti joined in, proposing that he be awarded the Gold Medal for Civil Valor.
While some are labeling Aguzzi as a true hero, he humbly insists otherwise. To him, it was simply an instinctual response to a critical situation. He credits destiny and chance for placing him in the right spot at the right time.
As investigations into the incident continue, one thing remains clear – Aguzzi’s incredible courage and selflessness saved a child’s life.
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