Inter Milan goalkeeper Josep Martinez was involved in a tragic road accident on Tuesday morning that claimed the life of an 81-year-old man. The incident occurred near the club’s training facilities in northern Italy.
The 27-year-old Spanish international was driving to training around 10 a.m. when the collision happened in Fenegro, a town close to Inter’s Appiano Gentile training base. Emergency responders rushed to the scene including police, paramedics, and an air ambulance.
Despite immediate medical efforts, the elderly man traveling in a motorized wheelchair succumbed to his injuries at the accident site. Italian authorities confirmed Martinez stopped immediately after the crash to assist the victim.
Investigation Underway
Carabinieri investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. Early evidence suggests the victim may have experienced a medical emergency that caused his wheelchair to enter the vehicle’s path unexpectedly.
Martinez emerged physically unharmed but is reportedly deeply shaken. The goalkeeper is cooperating fully with law enforcement officials conducting the inquiry.
Inter Milan manager Cristian Chivu canceled his pre-match press conference scheduled before Tuesday’s Serie A fixture against Fiorentina following the devastating news.
Martinez’s Professional Background
Since joining Inter last season, Martinez has made 12 appearances across competitions, recording seven clean sheets. The goalkeeper previously played for Genoa, RB Leipzig, and Las Palmas before moving to Milan.
With one international cap for Spain, Martinez deputized for first-choice keeper Yann Sommer earlier this year during his thumb injury. This season, he’s featured in two of Inter’s eight Serie A matches.