Scottish Tourist Dies from Injuries After Rome Gas Explosion
Grant Paterson, a 54-year-old Scottish tourist from East Kilbride, has succumbed to his injuries after a suspected gas explosion destroyed his holiday home in Rome. Paterson, a senior catering rating for ferry operator CalMac, suffered burns on 75% of his body in the March 23 incident.
CalMac’s Chief Operating Officer, Diane Burke, remembered Paterson as a “true gentleman” and a “credit to” his vessel, MV Clansman. Burke stated that Paterson’s colleagues are “distraught” over his passing, describing him as “much-loved” for his “larger-than-life character.”
Rome’s mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, expressed condolences to Paterson’s loved ones, saying the news “saddens all of Rome.” Gualtieri has ordered an investigation into the incident, which is believed to have been caused by a gas explosion.
A fundraiser for Paterson and his daughter had raised over £12,000 before his passing. The UK’s Foreign Office is providing support to Paterson’s family and is in touch with local authorities.
