Alessandro Coatti, a dedicated scientist formerly associated with the Royal Society of Biology, was tragically discovered murdered in Santa Marta, Colombia. The investigation has sparked a reward for information as friends and colleagues express their sorrow over his untimely death.
Tragic Murder of Esteemed Scientist Raises Outcry and Calls for Justice
Tragic Murder of Esteemed Scientist Raises Outcry and Calls for Justice
The scientific community mourns the loss of Alessandro Coatti, found murdered in Colombia, as authorities promise swift action against his killers.
The Royal Society of Biology (RSB) is in mourning following the tragic murder of Alessandro Coatti, a former science policy officer based in London. Coatti's remains were unearthed on the outskirts of Santa Marta, a scenic port city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, prompting an outpouring of grief from the scientific community.
Colombian authorities announced a reward of 50,000,000 Colombian pesos (around £8,940) for details that could lead to the capture of his killers. Mayor Carlos Pinedo Cuello declared: “This crime will not go unpunished. The criminals must know that crime has no place in Santa Marta.”
The Royal Society of Biology expressed their devastation, stating that Coatti was a passionate contributor to animal science, who had authored numerous papers, organized events, and provided testimonies in the House of Commons. They described him as a "funny, warm, intelligent" individual, cherished by colleagues, and deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Coatti had a significant academic background, holding a master’s degree from University College London (UCL) and dedicated eight years to the RSB before stepping down at the close of 2024. He had planned to volunteer in Ecuador and explore South America, yet his aspirations were tragically cut short.
Parts of his dismembered body were discovered in a suitcase dumped in a stream, intensifying the urgency of the investigation. Reports indicate Coatti had recently sought information about the village of Minca for research on local wildlife, highlighting his commitment to the field of biology even in his travels.
The incident not only highlights the dangers faced by researchers abroad but also underscores the need for justice and safety in regions with prevalent violence. The search for Coatti's assassins continues as authorities assure the public of their dedicated pursuit of justice.
