Worshippers experienced moments of terror during Mass at the Dominican Sisters’ chapel in Sant’Anastasia, near Naples. A masked man entered the premises and attempted to rob the congregation, firing a blank pistol shot as intimidation before fleeing the scene. Investigators from the Mobile Squad and Ponticelli Police Station are conducting a manhunt.
Naples Prefect Michele di Bari immediately ordered heightened security patrols following the incident, condemning it as “a vile act deserving firm condemnation—especially given its occurrence within a chapel, a symbol of peace, prayer, and community gathering.” He expressed solidarity with the Mother Superior, the religious community, and all parishioners, announcing he would visit the Dominican complex on Monday to offer personal support.