TelePordenone Owner Mario Ruoso Found Murdered; Collaborator Under Suspicion

Pordenone, Italy – Mario Ruoso, 87, the founder and longtime owner of TelePordenone, a local television station, was found murdered in his home on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. A man identified as a historical collaborator of Ruoso is currently under investigation in connection with the death, with authorities suggesting a possible economic motive.

Details of the Crime

Ruoso was discovered deceased in his apartment in Pordenone, located near his automobile dealership. Investigators described the scene as violent, stating he was repeatedly struck in the head with a blunt object. A potential weapon, a bar, was recovered from a local waterway by firefighters on Thursday morning, according to ANSA.

Suspect in Custody

Police have questioned a man in his sixties, described as a long-term collaborator of Ruoso, regarding the murder. The suspect was taken into custody overnight and is currently being held at the Pordenone police station. His car has been seized, and investigators are analyzing items found in the vehicle, including a bag recovered from the trunk, reports ANSA.

Ruoso’s Life and Career

Mario Ruoso, known as a “Cavaliere del Lavoro” (Knight of Labor), was a prominent figure in the Pordenone area. He founded TelePordenone in 1980, and the station operated until 2024. He also owned Garage Venezia, a car dealership. PordenoneToday notes that Ruoso was involved in past legal proceedings, including a case involving a Nissan disguised as a Ferrari 250 GTO, resulting in a fine and the car’s confiscation.

Family Reaction

Alessandro Ruoso, the victim’s nephew, expressed shock and disbelief at the news. He stated that his uncle had supported the suspect throughout his life and that the situation was completely unexpected. He recounted discovering his uncle’s body after being unable to reach him by phone, finding the door locked and his uncle deceased inside, according to ANSA.

Investigation Ongoing

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to gather evidence and question witnesses. The Pordenone prosecutor, Pietro Montrone, stated that the suspect is currently being questioned but has not yet been formally arrested, as reported by TG24.