Truck driver who drunkenly killed Davide Rebellin arrested

The tragic incident that shocked the cycling world on the 30th of November 2022 has taken a significant turn with the arrest of Wolfgang Rieke, the 62-year-old German lorry driver who hit and killed renowned Italian cyclist Davide Rebellin. After an intensive investigation, the Vicenza police managed to obtain a European arrest warrant and Rieke is currently in custody in Münster prison.

According to the order issued by the prosecutor's office, Rebellin's death cannot be attributed to a single negligent behaviour on the part of Rieke, but to a plurality of behavioural standards. This statement suggests that the truck driver may have engaged in a series of irresponsible actions that culminated in the tragic collision.

The fateful incident took place while Davide Rebellin was training along regional highway 11 in Montebello Vicentino, around lunchtime. Despite the rapid response of emergency personnel, Rebellin lost his life at the scene of the accident, and the truck driver fled without providing assistance.

However, the images captured by the security cameras of a nearby restaurant were essential to identify the license plate and the model of the vehicle involved in the incident. Thanks to this crucial evidence, the authorities were able to track the truck to Rieke.

The prosecution discovered that Rieke already had a criminal record in Italy. In 2001, he had been sentenced in Foggia for escaping from the scene of an accident without helping the victims. In addition, in 2014, the Chieti Traffic Police had withdrawn his driver's license due to driving under the influence of alcohol. This history of reckless behaviour and lack of responsibility increased the seriousness of the situation.

Wolfgang Rieke's arrest provides a ray of hope for Davide Rebellin's loved ones, who have been fighting for justice since that fateful day. Now, it will be the responsibility of the German justice system and the relevant authorities to carry out a thorough investigation and ensure that justice is served in this case.

The cycling community has lost one of its most prominent members, and the tragic death of Davide Rebellin remains an irreparable loss. As the judicial process unfolds, it is expected that justice will be served and those responsible will face the consequences of their actions. Rebellin's legacy, a great athlete and an exemplary human being, will live on in the memory of all those who love cycling.