Welcome to the sixth insertion of DEMUR®, a series where we will be highlighting some of the most interesting topics in all of art. This week we’ll be uncovering the harrowing secrets behind the assassination of Maurizio Gucci一unfolding the layers of betrayal leading to the shocking death.
On March 27th, 1995 Maurizo Gucci was shot dead by an unknown gunman whilst entering ‘Palestro 20’ in Milan, Italy. Without any identification on either the shooter or widely known motives, the event seemed illogical and unreal. At the time, the Gucci house was fully staked between members of the affluent family tree, Maurizo being son to Rodolfo Gucci, and grandson to the company’s founder一Guccio Gucci. This intertwined web of relations and business frequently sparked internal controversy, although often futile, the disagreements were not held lightly.
Following the death of Rolofo Gucci in 1983, Maurizo was gracefully presented with his father’s 50% ownership in the label, and took place as chairman. This was the true downfall for the power hungry 35 year old, pursuing a dream of wealth and control in trade for any regard for his wife, Patrizia Reggiani and two kids, Alessandra and Allegra Gucci. The relationship prospered in bliss for just over a decade prior to the inheritance, but Maurizo “changed overnight”, now hungry for power. Maurizio Gucci split on his immediate family, abandoning all three on a business trip to Florence, never to return.
However, Maurizio’s drive for supremacy was short-lived. Forced to sell his shares to InvestCorp 18 months prior to his murder for a reported $150-200 million, the company name was no longer held under family ownership, or Italian roots. Maurizio also closed the door to his past relationship with Reggiani, filing for divorce in 1991. This was the spark in which ignited the murderous plan, set in motion by Patrizia Reggiani herself. Allegedly requesting assistance from Pina Auriemma一a close friend to Patrizia, to garner a hit-man willing to take out her ex-husband. Obliging, Benedetto Ceraulo was rallied and the hit was carried out, leaving the fashion industry in disbelief, and all associates arrested for decades to come.
Comments