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Gjovalin Lazri Murder: Defense Claims Burglars Targeted Home Where Owner Slept

An Italian truck driver faces homicide charges after shooting and killing a 36-year-old Albanian man outside a residential property in Baldissero d’Alba, according to local investigative reports. The suspect, 35-year-old Roberto Mollo, allegedly fired multiple rounds from a…

Gjovalin Lazri Murder: Defense Claims Burglars Targeted Home Where Owner Slept

An Italian truck driver faces homicide charges after shooting and killing a 36-year-old Albanian man outside a residential property in Baldissero d’Alba, according to local investigative reports. The suspect, 35-year-old Roberto Mollo, allegedly fired multiple rounds from a balcony as a group of suspected burglars fled the scene.

Fatal Shots Fired From a Balcony in Baldissero d’Alba

The incident occurred while Mollo was sleeping alone at his grandparents’ home to protect nearby renovation materials from potential theft, according to statements from his legal representation. Investigators state that Mollo’s shouts from the first-floor balcony prompted the group to run, after which he used a Steyr 9×21 caliber pistol inherited from his father to open fire.

The Deadly Pursuit and Preliminary Findings

According to preliminary findings reported by investigators, the victim, Gjovalin Lazri, was struck from a distance of approximately 30 to 40 meters as he fled alongside other members of the group. Lazri managed to run a short distance further before collapsing. Medical examinations identified two bullet wounds located between his neck and shoulder.

Autopsy and Forensic Ballistics Ordered

The Procura di Asti has ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death and sequence of events. Authorities are also conducting ballistic examinations to verify the trajectory, firing distance, and precise dynamics of the shots fired during the encounter.

Defense Arguments and Carabinieri Investigation

Defense attorney Piermario Morra argues that the confrontation stemmed from a home intrusion rather than a simple dispute over construction supplies. According to the defense, items recovered by the Carabinieri at the scene—including flashlights and gloves—indicate that the group intended to break into the dwelling where Mollo was sleeping.

Mollo was questioned by Carabinieri personnel stationed in Sommariva Perno regarding the shooting. Prosecutors have charged him with the homicide of Lazri as well as the attempted homicide of the fleeing accomplices who managed to escape capture.

Residency Checks and Pending Criminal Determinations

Investigators confirmed that the firearm used in the incident was legally registered to Mollo’s family. Authorities are examining residency documentation to determine whether Mollo had officially completed his move from a previous home located a short distance away. Final determinations regarding criminal responsibility depend on the completion of the ongoing forensic autopsies and ballistics reports.

Gjovalin Lazri ucciso durante il furto, l'avvocato: «Mollo? È uno stato di diritto»
About the author: Marcus Liu - Business Editor

MBA and ex‑B bureau chief specializing in global finance and fintech. Marcus speaks Mandarin, Japanese, and English, and has interviewed CEOs from the Fortune 50 to Y‑Combinator unicorns. Marcus Liu delivers sharp analysis on markets, startups, and corporate strategy for investors and entrepreneurs alike.