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| Artan Kraja |
Kraja, originally from Albania, worked as a freight handler at Smurfit Kappa, where he managed goods and pallets as a contractor. On the evening of Tuesday, January 7, 2024, Kraja collapsed unexpectedly while on the job. Initial speculations linked his death to a workplace accident—perhaps an error in maneuvering or an accidental fall. However, authorities now suspect a medical emergency, potentially a heart attack, as the cause.
The alarm was raised by Kraja’s wife, who also worked at Smurfit Kappa as a cleaning staff member. Upon finding her husband, she immediately contacted emergency services. The incident was initially classified as a workplace accident, prompting the arrival of paramedics, the Red Cross of Lucca, the local carabinieri, and workplace safety investigators. Upon arrival, medical professionals confirmed that Kraja’s death was due to a sudden medical episode.
Kraja was also a small business owner, operating a transport and logistics company alongside his role at Smurfit Kappa. On the night of the incident, he was handling pallet logistics—tasks that likely led investigators to initially suspect a workplace fatality.
His unexpected death has left colleagues, his wife, and the local community in shock. None of his coworkers were present to witness the incident. Autopsy results are now awaited to confirm the exact cause of death and clarify lingering uncertainties about the tragic event.
The passing of Artan Kraja has sparked sadness among both his Albanian and Italian acquaintances, who remember him as a hard-working entrepreneur and devoted family man. His loss leaves behind questions about workplace safety and health, as investigators work to unravel the complete story.