Brit vacationer dies after predicting his personal ‘ungodly’ demise on vacation
Loving father Grant Paterson, from East Kilbride, Scotland posted an eerily accurate post on Facebook when he arrived in the Italian capital before the B&B he was staying at exploded
A loving father has tragically died days after the bed and breakfast he was staying at exploded due to a suspected gas leak. Grant Paterson, from East Kilbride, Scotland, was left with horrific burn injuries when the three-storey building in the Monteverde area of the Italian capital was demolished in the blast on March 22.
Grant had arrived in Rome on Monday, March 17, to enjoy a solo-trip. In an eerie post shared on Facebook after he arrived in the Italian capital, Grant wrote: “Arrived in Rome, trains planes, buses and foot. Accommodation is beautiful.
“This should be a good week…..if I don’t get killed in some ungodly way…. As it’s just me I’m going to sit in a different bit every day.”
The 54-year-old was still alive when he was pulled from the rubble by firefighters but he sadly passed away three days later. He had suffered third degree burns to 75% of his body and was treated at the nearby Sant’ Eugenio Hospital.
The Scot underwent a skin graft surgery but sadly passed away at the hospital days later. His daughter and family flew to Italy to be by his bedside.
Grant was believed to have arrived in the city last week for a holiday, reports the Daily Record. Tributes have since poured in from his heartbroken friends and family. Friend Chris Gibson said: “Devastated at the news today that Grant Paterson has lost his battle for survival. RIP and fair winds. You will be sorely missed, big guy.”
Donna Williams-bale said: “Grant was a lovely man, a true gentleman. I will miss our chats whilst I’m travelling. Our deepest condolences, thoughts are with his daughter, family and friends and work colleagues. Rest in Peace Grant, you will be truly missed.”
Anne Perrie added: “So sorry to hear that. RIP Grant.” Grant was a senior member of CalMac’s on-board catering team. The company’s Chief Operating Officer Diane Burke said: “Everyone at CalMac is distraught that Grant has passed away. 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.
“Our thoughts are with Grant’s friends and family at this extremely difficult time.”
The cause behind the explosion remains unknown. Pictures taken from the rubble-strewn scene following the blast showed the area taped off by police.
Mayor Roberto Gualtieri ordered a full investigation to be carried out. Local reports suggested a gas leak or gas cylinder had triggered the explosion.
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