18 Years Later: Remembering Missing Brothers Salvatore and Francesco Pappalardi

On June 5, 2006, the Pappalardi family from Gravina, Puglia, Bari, faced an unimaginable tragedy. Salvatore, 13, and Francesco, 11, went missing, leaving their family and community in shock. The search for the brothers, affectionately known as Ciccio and Tore, ended tragically when their bodies were discovered on February 25, 2008, in a cistern at an abandoned building called 'La casa delle cento stanze.'

Why this matters: The disappearance and tragic death of two young brothers has significant implications for community safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement investigations. The case's outcome may influence policies and procedures for missing persons cases, potentially impacting the lives of many families in the future.

Eighteen years later, on the anniversary of their disappearance, the Pappalardi family continues to remember and honor the brothers. Rosa Carlucci, their mother, and Filomena Pappalardi, their sister, penned a heartfelt letter that vividly captures their enduring grief and love. They described the brothers as 'two united, courageous brothers who, with the sole force of love, tried to help each other, without thinking twice, without fear, with the sole desire to make it. Showing us how one brother can be a hero for the other.'

The discovery of the brothers' bodies brought a mix of relief and sorrow. Initially, their father, Filippo Pappalardi, was suspected of their murder and was imprisoned. However, he was later exonerated when the bodies were found by chance after another boy fell into the same cistern, and his friend raised the alarm.

The Pappalardi family has sought justice beyond the criminal investigation. They filed a civil lawsuit against the Municipality of Gravina and the owner of the abandoned building, seeking damages. Despite their efforts, the lawsuit was rejected in both the first instance and appeal courts in Bari. The case is currently pending in the Court of Cassation.

In their letter, Rosa and Filomena reflect on the lasting impact of Salvatore and Francesco's lives. They wrote, 'You will always be present and alive in our memories. You are our angels, goodbye Ciccio and Tore.' Their words resonate deeply, highlighting the profound loss felt by the family and the community.

On the 18th anniversary of the brothers' disappearance, the Pappalardi family continues to seek answers and justice. Their unwavering determination serves as a tribute to their love and dedication to Salvatore and Francesco, ensuring that their memory remains alive.

The story of Ciccio and Tore is a powerful testament to the strength of familial bonds and the lasting effect of loss. The Pappalardi family's experience highlights the importance of perseverance in the face of tragedy and the enduring power of love.

Key Takeaways

• Two brothers, Salvatore (13) and Francesco (11), went missing on June 5, 2006, in Gravina, Puglia, Italy.
• Their bodies were found 2 years later in an abandoned building's cistern, ending the search in tragedy.
• Their father was initially suspected, but later exonerated when the bodies were discovered by chance.
• The family filed a civil lawsuit against the Municipality and building owner, but it was rejected in lower courts.
• The family continues to seek justice and remembers the brothers on the 18th anniversary of their disappearance.