The Royal Society of Biology (RSB) is currently in mourning following the tragic murder of Alessandro Coatti, a prominent scientist who once worked for the organization. Coatti’s body was discovered in northern Colombia, an alarming occurrence that has sent shockwaves through the scientific community. He was found on the outskirts of Santa Marta, a well-known port city located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, where investigators have been working diligently to understand the circumstances surrounding his death.
Santa Marta’s mayor, Carlos Pinedo Cuello, has taken an active role in addressing this horrendous crime. He announced a reward of 50,000 Colombian pesos, approximately £8,940, for any information that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for Coatti’s murder. This incentive serves not only as a means to gather information but also as a declaration that such brutality will not be tolerated in the community.
In their official statement issued on Tuesday, the RSB expressed their devastation and sorrow over Coatti’s death. The organization highlighted his significant contributions to animal science, noting that he had authored numerous submissions, organized key events, and even provided evidence before the House of Commons. The RSB characterized him as not just a brilliant scientist, but also as a “funny, warm, and intelligent” person who was beloved by his colleagues. Their heartfelt tribute underscored the profound loss they feel, saying, “He will be deeply missed by all who knew and worked with him.” The society extended its thoughts and best wishes to Coatti’s family and friends during this truly tragic time.
Coatti had spent his formative years enhancing his academic prowess, including completing a master’s program at University College London (UCL). Over the course of eight years, he made invaluable contributions as a science policy officer at the RSB, eventually earning a promotion to senior science policy officer due to his outstanding performance and dedication. Coatti had left his role at the RSB at the end of 2024 with plans to travel throughout South America, including volunteering in Ecuador—a move indicative of his adventurous spirit and passion for research.
The circumstances surrounding Coatti’s death are particularly grim. Reports state that parts of his dismembered body were found in a suitcase abandoned in a stream, raising alarming questions about the nature of his murder. Mayor Pinedo Cuello took to social media platform X to express his outrage, declaring, “This crime will not go unpunished. The criminals must know that crime has no place in Santa Marta. We will pursue them until they are brought to justice.” His resolute stance reflects a community unwilling to accept violence and determined to restore a sense of safety and peace.
While Coatti’s murder sheds light on broader issues of violence in Colombia, it also highlights the risks faced by scientists and researchers, particularly those who venture into remote areas for field studies. A hotel worker, who spoke to the Colombian newspaper El Tiempo, recounted that Coatti was inquiring about visiting the village of Minca as he conducted research on local animal species. This detail illustrates Coatti’s commitment to his work in biology and his willingness to explore and understand the natural world, further emphasizing the tragic nature of his untimely death.
In conclusion, the academic and scientific community has lost a dedicated and passionate individual in Alessandro Coatti. His contributions to the Royal Society of Biology and the field of animal science will not be forgotten, and as investigations unfold, there is hope for justice in what has become a painful chapter in recent history. The RSB, alongside many others, continues to honor his memory as they seek to address and prevent such senseless violence in the future.