Preliminary examinations of the heart of a 42-year-old Moroccan man who died during a police intervention in Italy found no signs of pre-existing heart problems, Italian public broadcaster RAI reported.
The findings are part of a forensic investigation ordered by prosecutors in Bologna, who are seeking to determine the cause of Abderrahim Fakir’s death.
RAI reported that the final autopsy report has not yet been completed and could take several more weeks.
The heart examination was conducted at the Cardiovascular Pathology Unit in Padua under the supervision of Cristina Basso, an anatomical pathologist and the unit’s director. Basso was among the specialists appointed by prosecutors to examine the circumstances surrounding Fakir’s death.
The latest findings follow preliminary autopsy results released last month that identified asphyxiation as a possible cause of death.
Forensic examinations also found blood in Fakir’s lungs and pathological signs consistent with prolonged compression of the chest.
Fakir’s death sparked widespread outrage in Morocco and Italy after videos of the police intervention circulated on social media. The footage appeared to show Fakir being held face down on the ground while two police officers pressed their weight against his torso.
According to forensic experts cited by Italian media, blood in the lungs can be associated with acute respiratory distress shortly before death.
The two officers involved in the intervention returned to work about two weeks ago but were assigned to administrative duties rather than patrols while the investigation continues.
The final autopsy report is expected to provide further findings on the circumstances and cause of Fakir’s death.
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