Alessandro Coatti, a scientist with the Royal Society of Biology, was found murdered in Colombia, leading to tributes from colleagues and a public appeal for information regarding his death. The circumstances surrounding his demise raise questions about safety for researchers abroad and the steps needed to protect them.
Outpouring of Grief as Murdered Scientist Remembered by Colleagues
Outpouring of Grief as Murdered Scientist Remembered by Colleagues
The tragic death of Alessandro Coatti, a passionate scientist and former member of the Royal Society of Biology, has sent shockwaves through the scientific community, prompting calls for justice and support for his family.
In a heartbreaking development, tributes are pouring in for Alessandro Coatti, a dedicated scientist formerly associated with the Royal Society of Biology (RSB) in London, after his brutal murder in northern Colombia. Authorities discovered his remains on the outskirts of Santa Marta, alongside a stream, sparking widespread shock and calls for justice.
Santa Marta's Mayor, Carlos Pinedo Cuello, announced a reward of 50,000,000 Colombian pesos (approximately £8,940) for any information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the crime. In response to the tragedy, the RSB described its profound devastation in a statement: “He was a passionate and dedicated scientist, leading RSB animal science work, writing numerous submissions, organizing events, and giving evidence in the House of Commons.” The organization added that Coatti, known for his warm and engaging personality, would be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of working with him.
Mr. Coatti had a notable academic background, having completed a master’s degree at University College London (UCL) before joining the RSB as a science policy officer. Over his eight-year tenure, he was promoted to senior science policy officer. He left the RSB at the end of 2024 to volunteer in Ecuador and travel across South America, where he was conducting research on local animal species at the time of his death.
The circumstances surrounding Coatti's murder have raised concerns about the safety of scientists working in various parts of the world. Mayor Cuello emphasized the determination to bring the perpetrators to justice, stating, “This crime will not go unpunished. The criminals must know that crime has no place in Santa Marta. We will pursue them until they are brought to justice.”
This tragedy highlights not only the personal loss felt by friends and colleagues but also the ongoing challenges faced by researchers in the field, raising critical questions about the safety and security of professionals dedicated to advancing scientific understanding. The RSB and the wider scientific community continue to extend their condolences to Coatti's family and friends during this devastating time.
