Murder of Nicholas Green

Article about the murder of Nicholas Green

Murder of Nicholas Green

The murder of Nicholas Green refers to the tragic killing of a seven-year-old American boy, Nicholas Green, who was shot during a robbery attempt while on vacation with his family in Italy in 1994. This incident had a profound impact on organ donation awareness in Italy and around the world.

Background

Nicholas Green was born in San Francisco, California, and was the son of Reginald and Margaret Green. In September 1994, the Green family was on a vacation in Italy, traveling through the region of Calabria when the incident occurred.

The Incident

On the night of September 29, 1994, the Green family was driving on the Autostrada A3 near Vibo Valentia when their car was approached by another vehicle. The occupants of the second car, believing the Greens to be carrying valuables, attempted to rob them. During the attempted robbery, shots were fired, and Nicholas was fatally wounded.

Aftermath

Following the shooting, Nicholas was taken to a hospital in Messina, Sicily, where he was declared brain dead. In a decision that garnered international attention, his parents chose to donate his organs, which saved the lives of seven Italians. This act of generosity led to a significant increase in organ donation rates in Italy, a phenomenon often referred to as the "Nicholas Effect."

Legacy

The impact of Nicholas Green's death and the subsequent organ donations led to widespread media coverage and increased awareness about the importance of organ donation. In Italy, the story of Nicholas Green is well-known, and his legacy is honored in various ways.

Monuments and Memorials

Several monuments have been erected in Italy to honor Nicholas Green. One notable monument is the

Monument to Nicholas Green in Italy

located in Bagnara Calabra, which serves as a reminder of the impact of his family's decision. Another significant memorial is the

Bell tower dedicated to Nicholas Green

, which stands as a symbol of peace and hope. Additionally, there is a detailed memorial plaque,

Detail of Nicholas Green Memorial

, that provides information about Nicholas and the lives saved through his organ donations.

Cultural Impact

The story of Nicholas Green has been the subject of books, documentaries, and films, all of which aim to promote the message of organ donation. His story continues to inspire many to consider organ donation as a way to give life to others.

Related pages

• Organ donation
• Calabria
• Autostrada A3