Four men face trial over Rome B&B explosion that killed Scots tourist

Four men are to go on trial over the death of a Scottish tourist killed in an explosion that destroyed his holiday accommodation in Rome.

Grant Paterson was visiting the Italian capital when the blast tore through the B&B he was staying in in the city’s Monteverde district.

The explosion occurred in one of the former stables at Villa Pamphili, causing part of the building to collapse, including the Mamma Roma B&B where Mr Paterson was staying.

The 54-year-old, from East Kilbride, was pulled from the rubble by firefighters after the explosion on Sunday, March 23, 2025.

The explosion took place in the Monteverde district of Rome near Villa Doria Pamphili and destroyed the B&B the Scottish man was reportedly staying in. EBU

He was taken to Sant’Eugenio Hospital with injuries to his legs and third-degree burns to 75% of his body.

His condition was described as critical before he passed away after nine days in hospital.

Now, according to Italian outlet La Repubblica, four men are on trial in connection with the explosion.

The kitchen installer, the property’s manager and owner, and an architect have reportedly been indicted on various charges, including forgery, manslaughter, and causing a disaster through negligence.

They deny the charges.

Following an investigation by the Italian police and a technical consultancy, the explosion was said to be caused by a gas leak attributable to the incorrect installation of the system in 2022.

Calmac pay tribute to ‘larger than life’ man

Friend of Mr Paterson, Chris Gibson, described him as a man with “strong values”.

He told STV News last year: “Everyone who has worked with Grant is going to miss him. A big man in stature as well as character, he had strong values and opinions and he loved a good debate”.

Mr Paterson worked for CalMac for more than a decade and was part of its catering crew on the MV Clansman ferry.

Diane Burke, CalMac’s chief operating officer, said the company was “distraught” and described the man as “larger-than-life”.

She said: “He was a true gentleman and a credit to MV Clansman, the vessel he served aboard.

“During a distinguished 12-year career with us, he embodied the very best of CalMac and, with his larger-than-life character, he was much-loved by colleagues and passengers alike.”

She added: “Our thoughts are with Grant’s friends and family at this extremely difficult time.”