The decomposed body discovered buried in a deep pit within undergrowth in the Ferruccia area, bordering Agliana and Quarrata (Pistoia province), is believed to be that of Salvatore Blandino, a 70-year-old widower reported missing from Quarrata since June 23rd. Investigators suspect murder and have detained Blandino’s own son in connection with the death. The Carabinieri of Pistoia, led by prosecutor Chiara Contesini, are investigating under strict secrecy.
Sources indicate the body’s discovery yesterday afternoon was not accidental, but the result of weeks of targeted searches. Molecular detection dogs from the Carabinieri located the corpse, pointing towards a disturbing homicide scenario. A major breakthrough came overnight with the detention of the elderly man’s son. Investigators reportedly considered the disappearance suspicious from the outset, following a report filed by Blandino’s sister. Traces of blood, including high splatters on walls, were allegedly found inside Blandino’s home on Via della Repubblica in Quarrata, suggesting a blunt object was used as the weapon. Investigators hypothesize the victim was transported and buried in the field after the killing. Evidence also reportedly shows Blandino’s bank card was used to withdraw €600 on the day he vanished.
Initial searches involved firefighters, civil protection volunteers, and Carabinieri, including a coordination point in Quarrata’s Piazza Risorgimento. Operations later proceeded discreetly due to the ongoing investigation. On June 27th, Quarrata Mayor Gabriele Romiti stated on Facebook that search procedures had “concluded” without finding Blandino, adding authorities would conduct further investigations. Due to advanced decomposition, the body cannot be visually identified. It has been transferred to Florence’s Careggi hospital for an autopsy and DNA comparison with the missing man’s relatives to confirm identity and establish the cause of death.
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