On May 19, 2012, a tragic incident unfolded in Brindisi, Italy, when three gas cylinder bombs exploded in front of a vocational school. The explosion occurred during the busy morning hours, around the time when students were arriving for classes, resulting in the immediate chaos and panic among pupils and nearby residents. The attack claimed the life of a 16-year-old student, Melissa Bassi, while injuring five others, some of whom sustained serious injuries. Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing experience of seeing the blast take place, followed by screams and a frantic rush to aid the injured.

Authorities quickly launched an investigation, which led to suspicions of organized crime involvement due to the modus operandi of the bombing. The blast not only traumatized those directly affected but also instigated fears within the broader community regarding safety and the possible resurgence of violent behavior linked to organized crime. Local media outlets extensively covered the event, highlighting Melissa's promising future and the outpouring of grief from her peers.

The bombing sparked debates about security measures at educational institutions and prompted government officials to reassess public safety protocols. Public memorials were organized in honor of the victims, with community members rallying together to promote peace. The tragedy of Melissa Bassi's death served as a critical reminder of the dangers posed by violence in society and sparked discussions surrounding the effectiveness of ongoing crime prevention efforts.